Hayden Panettiere's neighbors were reportedly warned to call the police if they spotted her ex-boyfriend Brian Hickerson at her Los Angeles property. The 36-year-old actress, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died from a suspected overdose on August 16, 2026.
HOA Warning Flyer Posted in August 2025
Towards the end of August 2025, a warning poster featuring Hickerson's face was allegedly put up outside her West Hollywood home following complaints about his behavior. The flyer was reportedly posted by the homeowners association (HOA) at The Hancock Condominiums, according to TMZ. Featuring two photographs of Hickerson, a message read: 'Please do not grant him access to the building. If he is seen anywhere on this property, please call 911 immediately and report that he is trespassing on the premises.'
Mia Terrazas, who lived one door away from Panettiere, told the publication that the poster was taken down around a week after it was put up and said she was told Hickerson was no longer considered a threat. Terrazas also alleged that it came after years of disturbances involving Hickerson. She claimed she had been 'terrified' of him during the time he lived with Panettiere and had called 911 at least six times due to disturbances at her home, Inside Edition reports.
Domestic Violence History and Investigation
Hickerson has a history of domestic violence allegations involving Panettiere. In 2020, he was arrested after being accused of assaulting the actress. He later pleaded no contest to two counts of injuring a spouse or girlfriend and was sentenced to 45 days in jail. Panettiere and Hickerson subsequently split, although they appeared to remain in each other's lives on and off at various points.
This comes after it was revealed that the Greenville PD and the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) are investigating Panettiere's death. The toxicology results of the autopsy are still pending, but emergency services were called out to the house for a woman in cardiac arrest. According to reports, opioid medication was found at the apartment where Panettiere died. TMZ reported that Narcan – a brand of Naloxone – was present in the apartment, which is a nasal spray that can be administered to counteract the effects of an opioid overdose.
Family Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Panettiere's mother, Lesley Vogel, has also spoken publicly about the investigation. Vogel told NBC News that the family had been trying to 'get rid' of Hickerson. 'This person in her life that we have been trying to get rid of for quite some time was with her at her death and that was Brian Hickerson,' she said. Her mum continued: 'I think Hayden was an amazingly talented person in so many departments and I think young people who grow up in the entertainment industry — it is a struggle and it's a very challenging industry and it's not unusual for them to sadly find the wrong path.'
Hickerson's representative has been approached for comment. The investigation into Panettiere's death continues, with authorities awaiting toxicology results and examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
