Following the sudden passing of Hayden Panettiere, Brian Hickerson’s brother Zach Hickerson has stepped forward to address the growing wave of speculation and accusations circulating online. Wanting to clarify his role in the tragic incident, Zach revealed the events that took place during the final moments of the actress’s life at an Airbnb in Greenville, South Carolina. He said he felt it was important to share what happened as rumors continued spreading across social media.

According to Zach, he, Brian, and Hayden had planned to spend time together that day, including having lunch and going indoor golfing after Zach attended church. After leaving the service, he attempted to contact both Hayden and his brother through calls and messages but received no response. Believing they were simply resting, Zach returned to the rental property. However, he was unable to enter because he did not have the door code, forcing him to knock loudly until someone responded.

Zach explained that his knocking eventually woke Brian, who had been taking a nap with Hayden on the pull-out couch in the living room. When they entered the room and tried to wake her for their planned lunch, they realized something was seriously wrong. Hayden was found unconscious, and Zach immediately called emergency services while Brian administered Narcan, a medication commonly used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

After Narcan was given, Zach said he and Brian worked together to perform CPR while staying on the phone with 911 until firefighters and emergency medical personnel arrived. He described the response efforts as intense, saying they watched medical teams take every possible step to try to save Hayden’s life. Despite those efforts, the actress was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Zach shared that he was devastated by Hayden’s death and described her as one of his closest friends over the past eight years. He emphasized that he deeply cared for her and urged people to avoid making assumptions or spreading accusations before the official investigation is complete. Zach stated that the truth surrounding the circumstances of her death would become clearer once authorities finish reviewing all available information.

The tragedy came shortly before Hayden’s former fiancé, Wladimir Klitschko, paid tribute to the actress on what would have been her 37th birthday. In an emotional message, he honored her life, her spirit, and the love she brought to those around her. He also thanked fans, friends, and supporters for the kindness they showed during a painful time, encouraging everyone to focus on love, forgiveness, and compassion.

Hayden and Wladimir shared a daughter, Kaya, and their relationship was marked by difficult personal struggles. In previous years, Hayden openly faced challenges involving postpartum depression and addiction. In 2018, when their daughter was still young, Hayden transferred custody to Wladimir, who later raised Kaya in Ukraine. Those close to Hayden remembered her as someone who brought joy and warmth despite the challenges she experienced.

Authorities continue to investigate Hayden Panettiere’s death. Officials have stated that no signs of physical trauma were found during the initial examination, while further testing will determine the official cause of death. Brian Hickerson’s attorney has also asked the public to allow the investigation to proceed, noting that police have not reported evidence of foul play. As the investigation continues, Zach’s statement aims to provide clarity and defend the memory of someone he described as a beloved friend.