Explained: Hayden Panettiere’s death was accidental and involved fentanyl, coroner says

A coroner in South Carolina ruled Hayden Panettiere died from an accidental overdose of several drugs including fentanyl.

fentanyl

A powerful synthetic opioid, often linked to overdose deaths.

alprazolam

An anti-anxiety medication, also known by the brand name Xanax.

coroner

An official who investigates and determines the cause of death in certain cases.

autopsy

A medical examination of a body after death to determine the cause of death.

chemical byproduct

A secondary substance produced when fentanyl breaks down in the body.