DEA Questions Hayden Panettiere's Ex-Boyfriend as Investigators Search for a Dealer

Federal authorities are taking a closer look at the death of actress Hayden Panettiere. According to reports, her ex-boyfriend Brian Hickerson has met with the DEA as investigators try to determine who may have sold her the drugs that led to her death on August 16 at a South Carolina Airbnb. Narcan was reportedly found at the scene, and a toxicology report still has not been released. Hickerson and his brother Zach were both present that night, and Hickerson’s attorney says police found no signs of foul play.

The story has grown complicated as accounts of that night diverge. Panettiere’s estranged mother, Lesley Vogel, has publicly questioned Hickerson’s version of the timeline, suggesting he may have left to purchase Narcan while her daughter remained alone. Hickerson’s attorney has stressed that the death remains under investigation and asked that the process be allowed to play out. With no toxicology results yet, many of the claims circulating are still unconfirmed.

Beyond the headlines, this is another painful reminder of the toll the opioid crisis takes on families across the country, including right here at home. If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available, and reaching out early matters. What do you think should happen for those who supply drugs in overdose cases?