17-10-2024 (BUENOS AIRES) Former One Direction singer Liam Payne has died in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The 31-year-old British pop star was found deceased outside a hotel in the capital’s upscale Palermo district following a fall from his third-floor room balcony, according to local police reports.
Argentine authorities were summoned to the scene on Wednesday, 16 October, responding to calls about a disturbance involving an “aggressive man” who appeared to be under the influence of intoxicants. Upon arrival, they discovered the tragic scene that has sent shockwaves through the global entertainment industry.
The hotel’s manager reported hearing a loud noise from the rear of the building. Police investigations revealed that Payne had fallen from the balcony of his room, with his body discovered in the hotel’s interior courtyard. Emergency services confirmed the singer’s death at the scene.
News of Payne’s untimely passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from fellow artists and industry figures. American singer Charlie Puth expressed his disbelief on social media, reminiscing about Payne’s kindness and their early collaborations. Major music entities including MTV, Spotify, and the BRIT Awards have also conveyed their condolences to Payne’s family and loved ones.
Payne, who leaves behind a young son named Bear from his relationship with British TV personality Cheryl, had risen to international stardom as a member of One Direction. The boy band, formed on the UK version of The X Factor in 2010, achieved phenomenal success before disbanding in 2016 as its members pursued solo careers.
In recent years, Payne had been open about his struggles with mental health and alcohol use, often attributing these challenges to the pressures of fame. Just last year, he had shared a video with fans discussing his journey towards sobriety and expressing gratitude for their unwavering support.
Tragically, earlier on the day of his death, Payne had posted on social media about his experiences in Argentina, describing horseback riding and polo matches, and expressing excitement about returning home to his dog.
As night fell on Buenos Aires, crowds of mourning fans gathered outside the hotel, held back by police cordons. Local resident Hernan Palazzo described the neighbourhood as “very shaken up”, noting the heavy police presence and the arrival of distraught fans.
One such fan, Violeta Antier, shared her shock with reporters, recalling having seen Payne just two weeks prior at a concert by his former bandmate Niall Horan in the city. “He was ok,” she said, struggling to comprehend the sudden loss.
