Argentine authorities announced Thursday that three individuals have been charged in connection with the death of former One Direction singer Liam Payne, who fell from a Buenos Aires hotel balcony last month. Payne, 31, died on October 21 in an incident that sent shockwaves around the world and raised questions about the circumstances leading to his fatal fall.
According to prosecutors, those charged include a suspected drug dealer, a hotel employee, and a close associate of Payne. The hotel worker is accused of supplying Payne with cocaine on multiple occasions, while the alleged dealer reportedly provided drugs just days before the singer’s death. The third individual faces charges of “abandonment of a person followed by death,” suggesting they may have neglected Payne in a critical moment.
Autopsy Reveals Drug Use
An autopsy revealed that Payne had traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in his system at the time of his death, authorities said in a statement. These findings have intensified scrutiny over the singer’s final days, during which he was reportedly exhibiting erratic behavior.
A 911 call made by a hotel employee on the day of Payne’s death described the singer as aggressive and possibly under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Witnesses also reported seeing Payne smashing his laptop in the hotel lobby shortly before his death.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Prosecutors are working to recover data from Payne’s damaged laptop, which may provide further insight into his final hours. None of the suspects have been publicly identified but have been barred from leaving Argentina as the legal process unfolds.
Family and Tributes
Payne’s body was returned to the UK over the weekend, accompanied by his father, Geoff Payne, and longtime One Direction bodyguard Paul Higgins. Fans around the world have been paying tribute to the late singer, with messages of condolence and memorials appearing in major cities, including Manchester.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Payne’s death have raised broader concerns about mental health and substance abuse, prompting renewed calls for increased support for those in the entertainment industry.
Key Points:
- Three Individuals Charged: A suspected drug dealer, a hotel employee, and a close associate of Liam Payne face charges related to his death.
- Cause of Death: Payne, 31, died after falling from a Buenos Aires hotel balcony in October.
- Autopsy Findings: Payne had alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in his system.
- Charges Explained: The hotel employee allegedly supplied Payne with cocaine, the drug dealer reportedly provided additional drugs, and the associate is charged with “abandonment of a person followed by death.”
- Ongoing Investigation: Authorities are trying to unlock Payne’s damaged laptop for further evidence.
- Family and Tributes: Payne’s body has been repatriated to the UK; fans worldwide continue to pay tribute.
