Liam Payne’s family speaks out after tragic death: “We are deeply devastated”

Liam Payne’s family have spoken out following the singer’s tragic death, saying they are “completely devastated”.

The former One Direction member tragically died last night (October 16) aged 31 after reportedly falling from the third floor of an Argentine hotel. CNN has since confirmed the British singer’s death through a statement from local authorities.

The “Little Things” singer grew up in Wolverhampton with his mother Karen – a nurse – and father Geoff – a mechanic. Payne’s older sisters Nicola and Ruth reportedly arrived at their family home in Codsall early this morning (October 17).

One of Payne’s family members told the story from their home in Wolverhampton MailOnline: “We are deeply shocked by the news.”

In a later statement from a family spokeswoman (according to The Telegraph), the late singer’s family added: “We are heartbroken. Liam will live on in our hearts forever and we will remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We support each other as a family as best we can and ask for privacy and space during this terrible time.”

News of Payne’s death was spread by a local newspaper La Nacionwho claimed he fell from the third floor of an Argentine hotel in the Palermo district. SAME, said the Argentine rescue service Rolling Stone Payne fell from “approximately 13 or 14 meters” and suffered “serious injuries incompatible with life.”

Since then, a wave of tributes have poured in for the singer, with former bandmate Harry Styles’ mother writing “just a boy…” on social media.

Meanwhile, Zayn Malik’s sister Waliyha shared an old picture of herself with Liam and wrote: “I can’t believe it, I honestly have no words for this sad moment… I really can’t believe it.”

Liam Gallagher also commented on Payne’s death, tweeting: “Life is precious,” before confirming that he had heard the news of the singer’s untimely death: “I find it very sad.”

In the meantime, buddy X factor Star Rebecca Ferguson has spoken out against the “exploitation and profiteering of young stars” in her tribute to Payne.