Three individuals have been charged in connection with the tragic death of Liam Payne, former One Direction member, who fell from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires on October 16.
Prosecutors allege that these individuals facilitated drug use and abandoned Payne, contributing to his demise. Their names remain undisclosed, but they include a hotel employee and a drug dealer12.
An autopsy revealed that Payne died from multiple traumatic injuries and significant blood loss, with toxicology reports showing traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescribed antidepressant in his system. Investigators concluded that his injuries were neither self-inflicted nor caused by others, ruling out suicide13.
In the hours leading up to his fall, hotel staff reported that Payne appeared visibly intoxicated and was behaving destructively in his room. Authorities believe he may have been unconscious at the time of the fall, as he lacked reflexive protective measures24.
The investigation has included witness statements, phone records, and forensic evidence. Prosecutors are also seeking access to Payne’s damaged personal computer for further insights into his final moments12.
Payne was in Argentina to attend a concert by bandmate Niall Horan and had shared joyful moments on social media before the incident. His girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, expressed profound grief over his loss, describing it as a “complete loss” and affirming her love for him23.
The case has drawn parallels to other celebrity deaths involving drug-related charges against associates. As the investigation continues, it highlights the ongoing struggles with addiction faced by many public figures14.
