Former One Direction singer Liam Payne was found dead on Wednesday after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, local officials confirmed. The incident occurred at the Casa Sur Hotel, located in the vibrant Palermo neighborhood of Argentina’s capital.
Liam Payne tragic fall
According to a statement from Buenos Aires police, Payne fell from the third floor of the hotel, sustaining “extremely serious injuries.” Medics pronounced him dead at the scene.
Spokesperson for the Security Ministry of Buenos Aires Pablo Policicchio reported that police were dispatched to the hotel following an emergency call regarding an “aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.” Upon arrival, officers heard a thud and discovered Payne’s body in the hotel courtyard.
Meanwhile, head of the state emergency medical system Alberto Crescenti stated on Argentina’s Todo Noticias TV channel that authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding Payne’s death and will conduct an autopsy. He refrained from providing further details, including whether Payne jumped from the balcony or fell accidentally.
Reports suggest that Payne was in Buenos Aires to attend a concert featuring his former One Direction bandmate Niall Horan.
Liam Payne One Direction legacy
Payne was part of One Direction, formed in 2010 after each member auditioned for the British singing competition series “The X Factor.” The judges combined the solo contestants into a group, which became one of the most successful boy bands in history.
Known for their pop sound and hits like “What Makes You Beautiful,” One Direction achieved six Top 10 hits on the Billboard charts before disbanding in 2016. The band’s dedicated fanbase, affectionately known as “Directioners,” consisted largely of teenage girls.
In his personal life, Payne is survived by his 7-year-old son, Bear Grey Payne, with his former partner, musician Cheryl, previously known as Cheryl Cole during her time with Girls Aloud.
He is also survived by his parents, Geoff and Karen Payne, and his two older sisters, Ruth and Nicola. Representatives for Payne have not yet responded to requests for comment.
