Brian Hickerson has spoken publicly for the first time since the death of his former partner, actress Hayden Panettiere, responding briefly when approached by a photographer in Greenville, South Carolina.
Hickerson, 36, was approached outside a petrol station on Wednesday, 16 September. Asked how he was coping, he replied: “How do you think I’m doing?”
After the photographer offered his condolences, Hickerson said: “Appreciate it. That’s all I got for you, man.”
The exchange came days after Hickerson was detained by police following a reported assault at a bar. His brother, Zach Hickerson, who was also present when Panettiere died last month, was arrested in connection with the incident.
Brian Hickerson was later released without charge, while Zach Hickerson was charged with disorderly conduct.
Panettiere died aged 36 on 16 August. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.
The Drug Enforcement Administration is also reportedly examining a series of messages between Panettiere and an alleged long-term drug dealer.
