The untimely passing of actress Hayden Panettiere has prompted intense scrutiny and questions surrounding the circumstances of her final hours. Recently, the brother of her boyfriend has come forward with his personal account of what transpired inside the Airbnb where Panettiere was discovered unresponsive on August 16.
In an extensive statement shared with a media outlet, Zach Hickerson challenged the various theories circulating about Panettiere's death, emphasizing that the complete truth would emerge once authorities conclude their investigation.
He expressed his desire to clarify his role in the events, hoping to allow Panettiere’s loved ones to mourn without the added burden of misinformation and undue public attention.
The Morning of August 16: Zach Hickerson's Account
Zach Hickerson recounted his morning: "On Sunday morning, I woke up at my Airbnb, got dressed and went to Church. I exchanged messages that morning with Brian on my way," he stated. "We planned on us all getting lunch and playing indoor golf after the service."
Upon leaving church, Hickerson attempted to contact both his brother, Brian, and Panettiere. "When I didn’t reach Brian or Hayden, I just assumed maybe they fell back asleep, so I drove over and went to the Airbnb. When I got there, I knew the code to the building but not the door code to the AirBnb."
He continued, describing how he gained entry: "I knocked loudly, which apparently woke Brian up from a nap they both were taking on the pullout couch bed in the living room." It was then that the gravity of the situation became clear. "When we went in and tried to wake Hayden up for lunch, we realized she was unconscious."
Emergency Response and Plea for Privacy
Faced with the dire situation, Zach Hickerson acted swiftly. "I immediately called 911, and Brian gave her Narcan," he explained. "We then jointly performed CPR while 911 was on speaker until Fire and EMS arrived. At that point, we watched as they tried every measure possible to save her life. I am beyond heartbroken and devastated by this tragic and traumatic loss. Hayden was one of my dearest and closest friends that I loved and cared about for the last 8 years."
He concluded his statement with a plea for respect: "Out of respect for her loved ones, the speculation and sensationalism of her death needs to end until the facts can be released from the investigation."
The statement reiterated that Panettiere's death remains under investigation and stressed the importance of allowing the process to unfold. It also highlighted that law enforcement had publicly confirmed no signs of foul play were found. "Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time."
Mother's Concerns and Police Report Details
These recent statements follow public remarks made by Panettiere’s mother, Lesley Vogel, who had previously raised questions about Brian Hickerson's role in her daughter's life and death.
In a statement to a media outlet, Vogel expressed her sorrow: "Although my daughter and I were estranged, it was not for lack of care or love. It was due to the involvement of a toxic individual who I believe led to her death."
She further stated, "Hayden was a beautiful and talented young woman who unfortunately became involved with the wrong person, and although her family tried to extricate him from her life, we were unable to be successful." Vogel also noted the Drug Enforcement Administration's involvement in the investigation, remarking, "It leads me to believe there are still questions surrounding what happened. And I think we are all looking for answers."
Days after her daughter's passing, Panettiere's mother publicly identified Brian Hickerson as the individual she believed was detrimental. "This person in her life that we have been trying to get rid of for quite some time was with her at her death, and that was Brian Hickerson," she told a news program.
According to the police report, Zach Hickerson appeared "very emotional" as paramedics worked to revive Panettiere, while Brian Hickerson reportedly did not show emotion until after the actress was pronounced deceased.
A Life Remembered
Hayden Panettiere would have celebrated her 37th birthday just five days after her passing. Her former fiancé and the father of her daughter, Wladimir Klitschko, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media.
"I want to thank all of Hayden’s fans, friends, and everyone who has reached out for the incredible outpouring of love and support," Klitschko wrote. "At a time filled with so much sadness, your kindness has reminded me that there is still so much good in humanity. If you’re reading this, I ask just one thing: even if only for a moment, think about LOVE. Reach out to a friend. Forgive someone. Be kind. Love is a superpower. Use it."
