Brian Hickerson makes long-awaited response following tragic death of Hayden Panettiere

The first public response from Brian Hickerson since Hayden Panettiere ’s death has been notable less for what it says than for what it avoids.

With investigators still trying to determine what happened inside the Greenville, South Carolina, residence where Panettiere was found unresponsive Sunday, Hickerson has chosen to speak only through his attorney, Sloan Ellis .

“Hayden’s death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed,” Ellis told TMZ.

“As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play,” the statement continued. “Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.”

That restraint comes as authorities continue examining the actress’s final hours. A cause and manner of death have not been announced.

What investigators know so far

Hickerson and his brother, Zach Hickerson , were both at the residence when Panettiere died, according to the reports.

Zach reportedly found her unresponsive in an armchair while Brian was asleep in another room. Emergency crews attempted resuscitation before she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Dispatch audio referenced an “unidentified female” in cardiac arrest and a possible overdose, but that hasn't been established as Panettiere ’s official cause of death.

Police also said Brian Hickerson showed officers a bag containing medications she had been taking.

An autopsy found no signs of trauma that contributed to her death, while toxicology testing and other investigative work remain pending. The Drug Enforcement Administration has also reportedly become involved in the broader investigation.

Hickerson’s history with Panettiere

Panettiere and Hickerson had been involved on and off since 2018, and their relationship was marked by serious legal problems.

In 2021, Hickerson pleaded no contest to two felony counts of injuring a spouse or girlfriend. He was sentenced to jail, probation and domestic violence classes, while other counts were dismissed.

Days before Panettiere ’s death, a judge reportedly denied Hickerson ’s attempt to have those convictions reduced or expunged.

Despite that history, the two remained connected. In May, Hickerson referred to Panettiere as his “good buddy” and said he hoped they might marry one day.

Panettiere is survived by her daughter Kaya , whom she shared with former heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko .

Following her death, Klitschko said his family was experiencing “profound shock and grief.”

“She left this world far too soon,” he wrote. “Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter.”

Until investigators determine what caused Panettiere ’s death, Hickerson ’s first statement suggests he intends to remain publicly silent.