Hickerson brothers detained in Greenville restaurant dispute weeks after Panettiere’s death

Key points

• Greenville police responded to a reported assault at Wild Wing Cafe on Woodruff Road around 9:10 p.m. on Sept. 13.
• Brian Hickerson was released at the scene without charges, while his brother Zachary Hickerson was taken into custody for disorderly conduct.
• Zachary Hickerson was transported to the Greenville County Detention Center after officers determined he was highly intoxicated and shouting profanities in a public setting.
• The incident involved multiple patrons, with several individuals detained during the investigation of the altercation.
• This event occurred nearly a month after Hayden Panettiere died on Aug. 16, with her cause of death still pending autopsy and toxicology results.

Background

This incident follows the death of Hayden Panettiere on Aug. 16, 2026, at a South Carolina apartment complex. Both Hickerson brothers were present when she was pronounced dead. In August, Brian Hickerson’s lawyer stated there were no signs of foul play, though the investigation remains ongoing. The DEA has also been involved in probing potential drug sources related to her death. The current altercation adds to a pattern of legal issues involving Hickerson, who previously faced domestic violence charges with Panettiere.

How outlets are covering it

USA TODAY and Fox Carolina News both report the core facts of the detention and arrest, citing the Greenville Police Department. Both outlets emphasize that Brian Hickerson was not charged, while Zachary Hickerson was arrested for disorderly conduct due to intoxication. USA TODAY provides additional context regarding the timeline of Panettiere’s death and the ongoing investigation, whereas Fox Carolina focuses primarily on the immediate police response and the status of the two brothers. Neither outlet reports conflicting details regarding the charges or the location of the incident.

Why it matters

The detention highlights ongoing scrutiny surrounding Brian Hickerson and his family in the wake of Hayden Panettiere’s death. While the current charges are minor, the incident draws public attention to the Hickersons during a sensitive period involving the unresolved cause of Panettiere’s death and ongoing investigations by local and federal authorities.

What to watch

Zachary Hickerson is expected to face legal proceedings for disorderly conduct. The investigation into Hayden Panettiere’s death continues, with autopsy and toxicology results potentially taking up to three months to release. Brian Hickerson’s attorney has been contacted for comment regarding the recent detention.