Hayden Panettiere's ex Wladimir Klitschko says family in 'profound shock and grief'

Wladimir Klitschko, the former world heavyweight boxing champion and ex-partner of actress Hayden Panettiere, has expressed deep sorrow over the untimely death of his daughter's mother at the age of 36. Klitschko, who shares an 11-year-old daughter, Kaya, with Panettiere, described the family's state as one of profound shock and grief following the news of her passing on Sunday in Greenville, South Carolina.

Police confirmed there were no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances surrounding her death, which was reportedly a result of cardiac arrest. The Greenville County Coroner's Office stated that the autopsy found no signs of trauma but the cause of death has yet to be confirmed officially. Klitschko, who had met Panettiere at a party in Los Angeles when she was 19, said that she had deeply struggled with substance abuse issues throughout her career.

Despite their separation and eventual decision on child custody, Klitschko emphasized the importance of respect for their daughter and his heartfelt condolences to Panettiere's family, friends, and fans.