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A DEA Investigation into the death of actress Hayden Panettiere is expanding. Agents are examining the drugs that may have contributed to her death. This includes reports of Fentanyl in counterfeit pills and communications with a longtime alleged drug supplier.

Panettiere, 36, died Aug. 16 in Greenville, South Carolina, after she was found unresponsive and in cardiac arrest. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office has said toxicology testing remains necessary before the official cause and manner of death can be determined.

The federal investigation reportedly extends to Los Angeles, where investigators are examining the possible source of drugs involved in the case.

DEA Investigation Examines Alleged Drug Supplier

Recent reporting has focused on text messages allegedly exchanged between Panettiere and a longtime drug dealer. TMZ reported that investigators are examining messages involving the purchase of black-market pills, including allegations involving oxycodone and fentanyl.

Authorities have not publicly identified a suspect or announced criminal charges in connection with her death.

The Los Angeles Times reported that federal authorities are investigating whether Panettiere obtained nonprescription pills from a Los Angeles-area dealer. Investigators have reportedly questioned people familiar with the circumstances surrounding her death.

DEA Investigation Includes Searches of Panettiere’s LA Home

The investigation took another step when DEA agents reportedly searched Panettiere’s Los Angeles residence on Aug. 25, nine days after her death.

According to TMZ, agents obtained a search warrant and were looking for evidence involving controlled substances, possible drug paraphernalia and medications that could help investigators determine where the drugs originated.

The DEA formally joined the investigation in August, according to ABC News. Panettiere's representative said at the time that the investigation remained ongoing and that the family hoped for answers.

Her Ex Brian Hickerson Was at the Scene

Panettiere’s on-and-off boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, was present at the South Carolina residence when she died, according to police records.

Hickerson and his brother, Zach, were at the residence when Panettiere was found unresponsive. A police report described emergency personnel attempting lifesaving measures before she was pronounced dead.

Reports have also said Hickerson spoke with DEA investigators as the federal investigation continued. However, authorities have not publicly identified him as a suspect in Panettiere’s death.

That distinction remains important as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the actress’ final hours.

Fentanyl Claims Remain Unconfirmed

Several entertainment outlets have reported that investigators believe the popular actress may have taken an oxycodone pill contaminated with fentanyl.

However, the Greenville County Coroner’s Office has cautioned that toxicology testing is still pending. The coroner has not formally established the cause or manner of death.

Panettiere was found in cardiac arrest, and an autopsy reportedly found no physical trauma that contributed to her death. Those findings have made the toxicology results particularly important to the continuing investigation.

Panettiere’s Career and Legacy

Panettiere became a familiar face to television and film audiences through roles in “Heroes,” “Nashville,” “Scream” and “Remember the Titans.” She began working as a child and remained in the entertainment industry throughout her life.

Her death came shortly after the publication of her memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning,” in which she discussed her experiences growing up in Hollywood and her struggles with addiction, relationships and other personal challenges.

The USA Herald previously examined her life and career in Jackie Allen’s article, “Hayden Panettiere Remembered for her Acting Career, her Memoir and her Troubles.”

Allen also reported on the initial investigation in “Hayden Panettiere Death Investigation Heats Up as Police Examine Possible Criminal Conduct.”

Additional USA Herald reporting by Allen includes “Hayden Panettiere has a Memoir About Child Stardom, and the Hidden Cost of Growing Up in Hollywood.”

DEA Investigation Remains Open

The investigation into Panettiere’s death remains active, with federal and local authorities examining potential drug sources and awaiting toxicology findings.

While reports have raised questions about the pills Panettiere may have taken and the people around her before her death, authorities have not publicly established a complete account of what happened.

Until toxicology results and the broader investigation are completed, allegations about the precise cause of death or responsibility remain unconfirmed.

Additional Information:

• ABC News: DEA joins investigation into Hayden Panettiere’s death
• Los Angeles Times: Investigation focuses on illegal pills
• CBS News: Police report details Panettiere’s final hours
• People: DEA search of Panettiere’s Los Angeles home