The actress’s death remains under investigation as authorities await toxicology results following reports of a federal drugs inquiry.
Hayden Panettiere’s representative has urged the public to wait for official findings as the investigation into the actress’s sudden death continues, amid reports of a federal drugs probe.
In a statement shared with People magazine on Wednesday, Panettiere’s representative confirmed that the death investigation remains ongoing while authorities await toxicology results.
“As reported yesterday by the Greenville County Coroner’s Office, Hayden’s death remains under investigation pending the completion of toxicology results, despite reports from some outlets stating otherwise,” the representative said.
The statement also addressed reports based on unnamed sources, describing them as unverified and noting that conflicting accounts about the circumstances surrounding Panettiere’s death continue to circulate.
“While we are all eager to find closure and better understand the circumstances surrounding her passing, we must remain patient and allow the investigative process to unfold,” the representative added. “The answers we are all seeking will come.”
The comments came after reports that the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) had obtained a search warrant as part of an investigation into possible illegal drugs connected to Panettiere’s death.
According to People, federal authorities searched the actress’s Los Angeles home on August 25, nine days after her death, reportedly looking for evidence of illicit narcotics. The DEA has also become involved in the wider investigation.
The reported federal search has fuelled speculation about whether drugs could have played a role in Panettiere’s death. However, authorities have not publicly confirmed a cause of death linked to narcotics.
Panettiere, 36, was found unresponsive in a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on August 16. Emergency responders attempted to revive her, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Greenville County Coroner’s Office handles sudden and unexpected deaths and says toxicology testing can take approximately six to eight weeks, depending on the circumstances of a case.
Reports concerning the initial investigation have included references to a possible overdose and the presence of Narcan, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. These reports have not established the official cause of Panettiere’s death.
Recent media reports have also raised claims about possible drug involvement, including allegations concerning counterfeit prescription medication. Such claims remain unconfirmed while investigators await toxicology findings.
Panettiere’s representative has now urged fans and the wider public to avoid drawing conclusions from unverified reports while the investigation continues.
The coroner’s office is responsible for determining the cause and manner of death in cases under its jurisdiction, with autopsies, toxicology and other analyses potentially required before a final determination can be made.
Panettiere was widely known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, as well as appearances in the Scream film franchise.
For now, the official cause and manner of her death remain unresolved, with toxicology results expected to provide further information.