Brian Hickerson was allegedly blamed for Hayden Panettiere’s death during a confrontation at a bar in Greenville, South Carolina, shortly before police were called to the scene.
A person at the venue allegedly told Hickerson: “You killed her. You probably beat her to death.” Hickerson and his brother, Zach, strongly deny any involvement in the actress’s death.
People close to the brothers said Zach had encouraged Hickerson to leave the house because he had been devastated by Panettiere’s death and had lost about 40 pounds while grieving.
The pair had reportedly gone to a local restaurant for a quiet evening watching a game. They also spent time discussing Panettiere before, according to those sources, people at the venue began harassing them.
The exchange became heated and video footage showed the brothers involved in a confrontation with other bar-goers. Police were subsequently called.
Hickerson was detained but not arrested, according to police. Zach was arrested on a disorderly conduct charge after officers said he was highly intoxicated and shouting profanities in public.
The brothers’ reaction came as the investigation into Hayden Panettiere’s death continued. They found her unresponsive, but neither has been named as a suspect or charged in connection with her death.
Hickerson is said to be dealing both with the loss of Panettiere and with public accusations surrounding her death. The investigation remains ongoing.
