The investigation into the tragic death of former One Direction member Liam Payne has encountered challenges, as two key suspects have exercised their right to remain silent during judicial proceedings. Braian Nahuel Paiz, an alleged drug dealer, and Ezequiel David Pereyra, a former employee of the Buenos Aires hotel where Payne died, declined to testify during their recent video interviews with Judge Laura Bruniard.
Both individuals are under investigation for allegedly supplying narcotics to Payne prior to his fatal fall from a third-floor balcony on October 16, 2024. Under Argentine law, the crime of supplying narcotics for payment carries a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison.
Paiz had previously appeared on local television, asserting that while he and Payne consumed substances together, he did not act as the singer’s drug dealer and did not accept money for drugs. Pereyra, identified as the hotel worker suspected of delivering drugs to Payne in a Dove soap box, has not made any public statements since being placed under formal investigation.
The court proceedings are ongoing, with additional individuals, including Payne’s close friend Rogelio ‘Roger’ Nores, hotel chief receptionist Esteban Grassi, and head of security Gilda Martin, scheduled for questioning. Judge Bruniard has 10 days following these interrogations to decide whether to formalize charges against the suspects, release them on bail pending trial, or drop the charges entirely.
Payne’s death has prompted a comprehensive investigation, with authorities examining the circumstances leading up to the incident. The refusal of key suspects to testify may impact the direction and outcome of the case, as the judicial system seeks to determine accountability in this tragic event.
