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New details are emerging in the investigation into the death of actress Hayden Panettiere, with law enforcement sources reportedly focusing on a prescription painkiller that may have been contaminated with fentanyl.
TMZ.com
Panettiere, known for her roles in Heroes, Nashville and Scream 4, died August 16 at the age of 36 in South Carolina.
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Investigators Suspect Fentanyl-Laced Oxycodone
According to sources familiar with the investigation, authorities believe Panettiere took an oxycodone pill on the morning of her death that may have contained fentanyl.
The information was first reported by TMZ, which cited multiple law enforcement sources connected to the case. Investigators reportedly believe the pill may have come from a Los Angeles source who supplied Panettiere with black-market prescription medications.
Authorities are now working to determine where the suspected pill came from and how it ended up in Panettiere’s possession.
tmz.com
Toxicology Results Are Still Pending
While investigators reportedly believe a fentanyl-laced pill could explain Panettiere’s death, the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Toxicology testing is still pending, meaning the suspected overdose theory remains under investigation. An autopsy reportedly found no signs of physical trauma that contributed to her death.
DEA Involved in Investigation
The investigation has expanded beyond South Carolina. According to reports, the DEA is working with authorities in both South Carolina and Los Angeles as investigators attempt to trace the suspected pill back to its source.
Investigators are also looking into the relationship between Panettiere and the alleged drug supplier.
A Career Spanning Decades
Panettiere became a familiar face to television audiences at a young age. She became a major star playing Claire Bennet on Heroes before taking on the role of Juliette Barnes on Nashville.
She also appeared in the Scream franchise and several other films throughout her career.
Her personal struggles with addiction had previously been publicly documented, including her efforts to seek treatment and maintain her sobriety.
The Investigation Continues
For now, authorities have not officially confirmed that fentanyl caused Panettiere’s death.
The suspected fentanyl-laced oxycodone remains a major focus of the investigation, but officials are awaiting toxicology results before determining the official cause of death.
Panettiere was 36 years old.
This story may be updated as additional information becomes available.