Hayden Panettiere's Death Sparks Fears Over Opioid Crisis 'Ravaging' South Carolina City Where Actress Died at 36
Hayden Panettiere died at 36.
Aug. 21 2026, Published 2:33 p.m. ET
Hayden Panettiere's death was apparently nothing new for the South Carolina community where she died.
Laced drugs and overdoses are reportedly a concern among the residents of Greenville, S.C. – and have been for years prior, RadarOnline.com has learned.
Drug Crisis 'Ravaging' Through Greenville
Panettiere previously opened about her struggles with drug addiction.
Greenville, according to a former addict in the area, has become a party town, and a drug epidemic is "ravaging" their city. She told TMZ some residents are able to get drugs delivered straight to their doorstep.
However, there is no direct evidence that this alleged uptick is related to Panettiere's death. In fact, her cause of death has not yet been confirmed as investigators are still waiting for a toxicology report.
Panettiere, 36, who struggled with opioid addiction in life, died on August 16. Responders discussed a "cardiac arrest" with 911 dispatch, treating her for an "overdose" at the time. Panettiere's ex, Brian Hickerson, was with her at the scene and provided police with a bag of medication she was taking at the time. However, what they were and whether she was abusing those meds is still unknown.
Hayden Panettiere's Cause of Death Still Pending
Authorities are investigating her death more closely.
Nonetheless, the Drug Enforcement Administration is reportedly on the case.
While foul play was not immediately suspected and an initial autopsy reflected no signs of trauma, an investigation into Panettiere's death was launched.
Authorities were spotted speaking with Hickerson at his grandmother's home. However, he has not formally been accused or charged with any wrongdoing.
Narcan Encouraged by Local Authorities
Narcan was found at Panettiere's home.
To combat the drug issues, the the city encourages people to carry Narcan – a life-saving drug which stops an overdose quickly. The coroner credits the increasing popularity of Narcan for the decrease in drug-related deaths in the area last year.
“It’s even more tragic when you think there is something that someone could have possibly done to prevent their loved one from dying,” Greenville County Coroner, Mike Ellis said, according to WSPA. “I truthfully believe Narcan is saving quite a few lives."
At the time of Panettiere's death, Narcan was found in her home. It's unclear if she had used the medication or if it was simply there for risk reduction efforts.
"GCFD believes education empowers action. By increasing awareness, reducing stigma and equipping community members with practical skills, we can work together to prevent overdose deaths and strengthen the safety of our community," local police encouraged Narcan on their website.
Community Plans to Honor Panettiere
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The community is holding a pre-planned awareness walk.
Plans for Panettiere's remembrance are still pending. However, the local community is reportedly planning to commemorate her at an annual event called Jessica's Walk on August 28.
"Jessica's Walk For Overdose Awareness is an annual walk held in downtown Greenville, South Carolina, during the month of August which is Overdose Awareness Month," the description for the event explained on Facebook.
The organization team added, "Help us end stigma around people who use drugs that deserve just as much dignity as anyone else. Learn how to use life saving naloxone. We have a couple of guest speakers and a HUGE surprise announcement this year! We hope to see you there and please share this so we can flood Facebook with this event. Let’s make this one the biggest yet!"
