Three Suspects Arrested, Charged in Connection to Death of Singer Liam Payne

Former One Direction singer Liam Payne on October 16, 2024 tragically fell to his death from a third-floor balcony at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires. In connection with this incident, Argentine authorities have arrested and charged three individuals.

The charges include "abandonment of a person followed by death" and "supplying and facilitating the use of narcotics," according to Prosecutor Andrés Madrea.

The first individual charged was reportedly a close acquaintance of Payne who spent time with him daily during his stay in Buenos Aires. This person faces a charge of abandonment, which carries a potential sentence of five to fifteen years in prison.

The second individual is a hotel employee accused of supplying Payne with cocaine on two occasions during his stay. The third suspect, identified as a drug dealer, is also charged with supplying narcotics, having allegedly provided drugs to Payne twice on October 14.

Toxicology reports revealed that Payne had alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in his system at the time of his death. A preliminary autopsy report indicated that Payne suffered "multiple trauma" and "internal and external hemorrhage" consistent with a fall from a great height.

It was noted that he may have been in a state of semi or total unconsciousness when he fell, as he did not adopt a reflexive posture to protect himself.

The investigation into Payne's death involved extensive analysis, including reviewing over 800 hours of security footage and examining data from Payne's cellphone.

Authorities have ruled out self-harm or interference from another person as causes of the fall. Following the investigation, Payne's body was released to his father, Geoff Payne, and flown back to the United Kingdom.