Prosecutors in Argentina are intensifying their investigation into the tragic death of former One Direction star Liam Payne, who fell from a hotel balcony on October 16, 2024. They are now analyzing hotel staff members’ phones and computer systems to determine their involvement in possible misconduct related to Payne’s death. Charges of neglect and drug-related offenses are under consideration for several individuals, including staff members and associates of the late singer.
Liam, 31, was reportedly under the influence of alcohol, cocaine, and an antidepressant at the time of his fall. Witnesses and documents indicate Payne had requested both alcohol and drugs during his stay at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel. While CCTV footage showed Payne hours before the incident appearing to procure drugs, his friend and alleged supplier have denied providing him with narcotics, claiming they merely consumed substances together.
Argentinian authorities have identified at least three suspects under investigation for abandoning Payne in a vulnerable state and facilitating drug access. They have ruled out suicide, stating Payne was likely in a state of impaired consciousness during the fall. Among those questioned is Rogelio Nores, Payne’s close friend, who claims he visited the hotel multiple times and left before the fatal incident.
Payne’s funeral in the UK brought together his family, One Direction bandmates, and industry figures like Simon Cowell and Cheryl, mother of Payne’s son, Bear. The singer’s father, Geoff, recently returned to the UK after making arrangements for his son’s body, while fans continue to mourn outside the hotel where the tragedy occurred. The investigation remains ongoing, with prosecutors scrutinizing potential negligence leading to Payne’s untimely death.
