Report: Hayden Panettiere death probe examines fentanyl-laced oxycodone

Reports citing law-enforcement sources say actress Hayden Panettiere may have died on Aug. 16 in South Carolina after taking oxycodone allegedly contaminated with fentanyl, but officials have not confirmed the cause or manner of death. Toxicology results remain pending and could take up to 12 weeks. The DEA and local authorities in Los Angeles and South Carolina are reportedly investigating a suspected long-term drug supplier, tracing the drug’s source and reviewing Panettiere’s final days. Panettiere was found unresponsive at an apartment after a 911 call reporting cardiac arrest and a suspected overdose, and emergency responders attempted resuscitation. Her former partner, Brian Hickerson, who was reportedly present, has spoken with investigators and previously told police she had a bag containing multiple medications; no arrest has been reported. Panettiere, known for "Heroes" and "Nashville," had publicly discussed struggles with addiction and mental health.