Three individuals have been charged in connection with the tragic death of Liam Payne, the former One Direction star, as reported by Argentinian authorities. The singer passed away on October 16 after a fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. One of the individuals accompanying Payne has been accused of abandonment followed by death, as well as supplying and facilitating drugs. Additionally, a hotel staff member and another individual face charges related to drug supply. The identities of the charged individuals have not yet been disclosed.
Payne, 31, had a remarkable career after gaining fame as a member of the globally renowned boyband One Direction following his appearance on The X Factor. Following his death, Argentinian investigators have been examining events leading up to his fall from the CasaSur hotel. Reports indicate that Payne's hotel room was found in a state of disarray, with evidence of drug use discovered posthumously. Emergency services received calls indicating that a guest had consumed excessive amounts of drugs and alcohol, resulting in destructive behavior within the room.
The public prosecutor's office released results from toxicology tests, revealing that Payne had traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in his system. A post-mortem revealed that his death was due to "multiple trauma" and "internal and external hemorrhage" from the fall. Prosecutors indicated that medical reports implied Payne may have been in a state of semi-consciousness at the time, discounting the possibility of voluntary actions.
Authorities have conducted multiple raids and are investigating Payne's damaged laptop and other personal devices. They have also analyzed over 800 hours of security footage from both the hotel and surrounding public areas. Following the completion of investigations, Payne's remains have been released to his family for repatriation to the UK.
In the wake of Payne's sudden death, heartfelt tributes poured in from various figures, including his former partner Cheryl and his bandmates, who expressed their devastation at losing a dear friend. Public vigils have been held worldwide as fans remember the impact of Payne's music and legacy.
