What to Know About Zach Hickerson, Brian Hickerson's Brother

Hayden Panettiere, the beloved actress best known for Heroes and Nashville, tragically passed away on August 16, 2026, at the age of just 36 — a loss that has left fans, friends, and the entertainment world reeling. According to a police report, it was Zach Hickerson — the brother of her on-and-off boyfriend, Brian Hickerson — who found Panettiere unresponsive and called 911. Her family has asked for privacy as they grieve, and the circumstances surrounding her passing remain under investigation. We've aimed to write about this news with the utmost care and compassion, sticking closely to what officials have confirmed.

Who Is Zach Hickerson?

Zach is Brian Hickerson's brother, and by most accounts has known Panettiere since she and Brian began dating in 2018. A source described the brothers' dynamic to E! News in 2019 as similar in appearance and manner, but noted Zach was, in the source's words, far less volatile than his brother, according to E! News. "Zach and Brian are very similar – they look alike and act alike, but Zach isn't nearly as explosive as Brian,” a source told the outlet.

What Was His Role on the Day Hayden Panettiere Died?

According to a police report obtained by multiple outlets, including CBS News, NBC News, and TMZ, Zach Hickerson entered the Greenville, South Carolina, apartment on the afternoon of August 16 and found Panettiere unresponsive in a chair in the living room while Brian was asleep in a separate room. Zach called 911 and woke his brother; first responders arrived shortly after and attempted life-saving measures, but Panettiere was pronounced dead at 2:31 p.m.

According to the Daily Mail, a reporter approached Zach, to which he replied: “No comment, bro, and with no offence to you and what you’re trying to do, this is private property.”

“Please respect our privacy. I’m not going to answer anything that you ask me,” the Nashville independent church founder told the outlet. “I would appreciate it if you wouldn’t mind just leaving us alone. I know you’re just doing your job.”

What Do Officials Say About the Circumstances?

Authorities have said the preliminary investigation has not indicated any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances so far.

Our thoughts are with Hayden Panettiere's family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. This is a developing story, and details may change as the investigation continues.