New Details Emerge About Hayden Panettiere’s Final Moments As Authorities Continue Investigation Into Actress’ Death At 36
New details have emerged surrounding the final moments of Hayden Panettiere’s life as authorities continue investigating the death of the beloved actress.
Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes, Nashville, and the Scream franchise, was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on Sunday, August 16, 2026.
According to the Greenville Police Department, officers and emergency medical personnel responded to reports of an “unresponsive female” at around 1:51 p.m. local time. The individual was later identified as Panettiere, who was 36 years old.
Dispatch audio obtained by PEOPLE reportedly captured officials discussing an apparent “overdose” and “cardiac arrest” around the time emergency crews arrived.
The investigation is being led by the Greenville Police Department and the Greenville County Coroner’s Office. Authorities have stated that the preliminary investigation has not found any evidence of foul play or suspicious circumstances.
Emergency Efforts Were Unsuccessful
On August 17, the Greenville County Coroner’s Office released additional details about the emergency response.
According to the statement, first responders arrived at the residence and found a woman experiencing cardiac arrest. Emergency Medical Services immediately began advanced cardiac life support measures, but the resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.
Panettiere was pronounced deceased at 2:32 p.m.
The coroner’s office confirmed that she was found unresponsive inside the residence where she had been temporarily staying.
An autopsy was completed on Monday. Officials said no signs of trauma were discovered that would have contributed to her death.
“The cause and manner of death remain pending further investigation and the completion of additional studies,” the coroner’s statement said, adding that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Investigation Continues
A source told PEOPLE that Narcan was found at the scene. Narcan is a medication designed to rapidly reverse the effects of a life-threatening opioid emergency.
Authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances of her death.
Remembering Hayden Panettiere’s Career
Hayden Panettiere began her acting career as a child, appearing in the ABC soap opera One Life to Live in 1994.
She later became widely recognized for her performances in major television and film projects, including Claire Bennet in Heroes, Juliette Barnes in Nashville, and appearances in the Scream franchise.
Throughout her career, Panettiere became known for her talent, memorable characters, and connection with audiences around the world.
She is survived by her 11-year-old daughter, Kaya, whom she shares with her former fiancé, former professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko.