One Direction’s Liam Payne (31) dies in tragic hotel fall

Payne’s death sparked mourning and tributes around the world

The news of Payne’s death caused immense sadness among fans and celebrities alike. A crowd of desperate fans quickly gathered near the crime scene in the Argentine capital.

Among those expressing their sadness was reality star Paris Hilton, who reached out to X to express her condolences, writing: “So disturbing to hear the news of @LiamPayne’s passing. I send love and condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, my friend.”

Payne’s injuries were “incompatible with life”

Alberto Crescenti, head of the SAME emergency service in Buenos Aires, told local television that Payne suffered “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 5:04 p.m. local time from the Hotel Casa Sur in the Palermo district and medical teams arrived seven minutes later to confirm the singer’s death.

Payne’s room showed signs of potential drug abuse

The police statement states that the 911 call was made to report “an aggressive male who may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”

The Argentine press shared details from the hotel manager’s 911 call, describing a guest “taking drugs and destroying the room.”

The Buenos Aires Ministry of Security said that upon arrival, officers were informed of “the death of a man who jumped from his balcony.”

Payne’s journey: From “The X Factor” to global stardom

Payne became famous as a member of One Direction, which was formed as part of the British television competition The X Factor in 2010.

The band, which also included Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik, released an album every Christmas and became one of the highest-grossing live acts in the world.

After an indefinite hiatus was announced in 2016 following Malik’s departure, Payne launched a solo career that same year.

Payne’s personal life and his struggles with fame

Payne was also the father of a son with his then-partner Cheryl Cole.

He had spoken openly about his struggles with alcoholism and the pressures of fame.

In a 2023 video on his YouTube account, he talked about spending time in rehab and trying to stop drinking: “I kind of became someone I didn’t recognize anymore. And I’m sure you didn’t realize that either.”

Payne’s last Instagram post was in May, in which he paid tribute to the late filmmaker Morgan Spurlock.