One Direction's Liam Payne (31) dies in tragic hotel fall
What's the story
Liam Payne, the famous British singer and former member of the globally successful boy band One Direction, tragically died on Wednesday at 31.
The incident occurred in Buenos Aires when he fell from the third floor of a hotel, local police and emergency responders confirmed.
It remains unclear what caused his fall—whether it was accidental or alcohol intoxication was involved. Payne had publicly struggled with alcohol abuse.
Global grief
Payne's death prompted global mourning and tributes
The news of Payne's death triggered an outpouring of grief from fans and celebrities alike. A crowd of distressed fans quickly gathered near the scene in the Argentine capital.
Among those expressing their sorrow was reality star Paris Hilton, who took to X to share her condolences, writing: "So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing. Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. RIP my friend."
Fatal fall
Payne's injuries were 'incompatible with life'
Alberto Crescenti, head of Buenos Aires's SAME emergency medical service, told local television that Payne had sustained "very serious injuries incompatible with life as a result of his fall."
He confirmed that there was no possibility of resuscitation.
The emergency call was made at 5:04pm local time from Casa Sur hotel in Palermo neighborhood, and medical teams arrived seven minutes later to confirm the singer's death.
Disturbing discovery
Payne's room showed signs of potential substance abuse
The police statement revealed the emergency call was made to report "an aggressive man who may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol."
Argentine press shared details from the hotel manager's emergency call, describing a guest "on drugs and destroying the room."
The Buenos Aires security ministry stated that upon officers' arrival, they were informed about "the death of a man who had jumped from his balcony."
Career highlights
Payne's journey: From 'The X Factor' to global stardom
Payne shot to fame as a member of One Direction, which was formed on the British television contest The X Factor in 2010.
The band, which also included Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik, released an album every year for the holiday season and became one of the highest-grossing live acts in the world.
After an indefinite hiatus announced in 2016 after Malik's departure, Payne launched a solo career that same year.
Personal battles
Payne's personal life and struggles with fame
Payne was also a father to a son with his then-partner Cheryl Cole.
He had been candid about his struggles with alcoholism.
In a 2023 video on his YouTube account, he spoke about spending time in rehab and trying to quit drinking: "I became somebody who I didn't recognize anymore. And I'm sure you guys didn't either."
Payne's last Instagram post was in May, where he paid tribute to late filmmaker Morgan Spurlock; he was also extremely active on Snapchat.
Twitter Post
Payne posted on Snapchat hours before his demise
Liam Payne, an hour before dying, posting on Snapchat. đź’” pic.twitter.com/iTHfzu7IMx
— DramaAlert (@DramaAlert) October 16, 2024