Former One Direction member Liam Payne, 31, has tragically died after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The incident occurred in the upscale Palermo neighborhood, and police discovered Payne’s body after emergency crews responded to a call on Wednesday, according to local authorities.
Payne, who rose to global stardom alongside Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Zayn Malik through The X Factor in 2010, was in Buenos Aires after attending a Horan concert earlier this month. Police reports indicate officers initially responded to reports of an aggressive man believed to be under the influence of drugs and alcohol. When they arrived, a loud noise from the hotel courtyard led to the discovery of Payne’s body. A full investigation is underway.
Alberto Crescente, director of emergency services in Buenos Aires, confirmed that Payne was seriously injured, and an autopsy will be performed. Crescenti declined to comment on the details surrounding the fall.
Shortly before the accident, Payne posted on Snapchat about the “beautiful” weather in Argentina. The British Foreign Office confirmed that it was in contact with the Argentine authorities regarding this issue, but no additional information was provided.
Fans began gathering outside the Buenos Aires hotel and lighting candles to mourn the loss of the beloved singer. One fan, Violeta Antier, shared her shock, recounting how she recently saw Payne at a Horan concert. Another emotional fan expressed that she needed to say goodbye in person.
Payne’s death has sparked tributes from fellow musicians and celebrities. Max George of The Wanted described Payne’s death as “absolutely devastating”, recalling their bond and support of Payne during George’s bandmate Tom Parker’s illness. Singer Olly Murs also expressed his sadness, reflecting on their shared dreams, while TV presenter Dermot O’Leary fondly remembered Payne’s talent during his early days on the X Factor. Socialite Paris Hilton added her condolences on social media.
The former boy band star, who was born in Wolverhampton, UK, first auditioned for The X Factor in 2008 but shot to fame in 2010 when Simon Cowell brought him and four other contestants together to form One Direction. The group went on to enjoy massive global success with hit songs such as “What Makes You Beautiful” and “Story of My Life.” After the group’s hiatus in 2015, Payne began a solo career, gaining further recognition with his debut single “Strip That Down”, and collaborations such as “For You” with Rita Ora.
Payne is survived by his son Bear, whom he had with his former partner Cheryl Tweedy. Earlier this week, his ex-partner Maya Henry made headlines after Payne was issued a legal warning over allegations of unwanted contact.