Hayden Panettiere died from the toxic effects of several drugs, including fentanyl, and her death has been ruled accidental, according to the Greenville County Coroner’s Office. Authorities said there were no signs of trauma or foul play, and the finding provides an official explanation for the death of the actress, who was 36.

Panettiere was found unconscious at a temporary residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on 16 August after a 911 call reporting cardiac arrest; she was pronounced dead at 2:32 p.m. The substances listed included fentanyl, 4-ANPP, alprazolam (Xanax), methocarbamol and quetiapine. Known for “Heroes”, “Nashville” and the “Scream” franchise, Panettiere had publicly discussed her struggles with alcohol and drugs and described them in her 2025 memoir.