Incident Involving Brian Hickerson After Hayden Panettiere’s Death

Arrest and Altercation in Greenville

Police in Greenville, South Carolina, detained Brian Hickerson and his brother, Zach, following a disturbance at a restaurant. This incident occurred on a Saturday night, as confirmed in a press release sent to Newsweek by the police department.

Hayden Panettiere, known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died on August 16. She had been found unresponsive at a Greenville residence. Despite attempts to revive her, the 36-year-old was declared dead that afternoon. Authorities have noted no immediate evidence of foul play, though investigations into the cause and manner of her death continue. Both Brian and Zach were reportedly at the residence at the time of her death.

Details of the Restaurant Incident

Officers responded to an assault at Wild Wing Cafe on Woodruff Road around 9:10 p.m. Upon arriving, they found a fight involving multiple people. Several individuals were detained for investigation, including the Hickerson brothers. The police report noted that Zach was highly intoxicated and used profanities in public. He was charged with disorderly conduct and taken to the Greenville County Detention Center. Brian Hickerson was released without charges.

TMZ released video footage showing a man believed to be Zach throwing a chair while a bar employee attempted to calm the situation. In the video, the man alleged to be Zach is escorted out by other employees. During the incident, Brian allegedly expressed frustration, linking a police leak to Panettiere’s death.

Background on Brian Hickerson

Brian Hickerson, a California-based real estate agent, began dating Panettiere in 2018 after her split from Wladimir Klitschko. Their relationship attracted public attention due to several legal issues. Hickerson faced domestic violence charges and, in 2021, pleaded no contest to injuring a spouse or girlfriend, which led to a sentence including jail time and probation. Despite their past, Panettiere stated they remained friends. Recently, Hickerson attracted attention for being present during Panettiere’s death.

Ongoing Death Investigation

Investigations into Panettiere’s death are ongoing. Although there were no immediate signs of foul play, authorities are examining all circumstances. Toxicology results are awaited, as investigators explore the possibility of drug involvement. Reports indicate a focus on identifying a potential drug supplier, with Hickerson interviewed as part of this examination.

No charges or arrests have been announced, and cause of death remains undisclosed. Dispatch audio suggested first responders managed a suspected overdose and cardiac arrest.

For more information, contact Newsweek editors Steve Mollman and Anthony Murray.