Former One Direction star Liam Payne has been found dead in Argentina.
The 31-year-old singer had fallen from the third floor of a hotel in the capital Buenos Aires, suffering “extremely serious injuries”, police said.
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Liam Payne dies: Sky’s Martha Kelner reports
Alberto Crescenti, head of the state emergency medical system, said on Argentinian television that Payne fell into a courtyard of the CasaSur Hotel in the trendy Palermo neighbourhood.
The official declined to answer questions over whether he jumped from the balcony or fell by accident.
Mr Crescenti said authorities were investigating the circumstances of his death and conducting a post-mortem examination.
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Fans hold a vigil for Liam Payne outside hotel
According to TV network Telemundo, police had been called to the hotel to reports of an aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Argentinian media reported that Payne was in Buenos Aires to attend the concert of his former One Direction bandmate Niall Horan.
Image: Fans and forensic workers at the scene. Pic: Reuters
Fans flocked to the hotel after news of Payne’s death broke, with many expressing shock and heartbreak.
“I didn’t think he was going to die so young,” 21-year-old Isabella Milesi said.
Hernan Palazzo, who works near the hotel, said the neighbourhood was “very shaken up… there’s a lot of police, some fans arriving. It is very sad”.
Payne had posted on Snapchat in the hours before his death, sharing photos of himself with his partner Kate Cassidy as well as videos in which he said it was a “lovely day here in Argentina”.
Image: Payne posted on Snapchat in the hours before his death
“Just enjoying coffee and breakfast, even though it’s like 1pm,” he said. “Literally sleep in every day until like 12. We’re such losers.”
The star spoke about “going to ride some horses” and said: “Think I’m going to play polo again which is going to put me out of action for about six weeks.”
Image: In one of Payne’s final Snapchat posts, he shared a photo of himself with partner Kate Cassidy
“It’s going to be a nice day,” he added.
Payne had embarked on a solo career after One Direction announced they were going on an indefinite hiatus in 2015.
Image: Payne posted on Snapchat with Horan. Pic: Snapchat/Liam Payne
Image: Payne (second right) with his One Direction bandmates in 2011. Pic: AP
The band was formed on The X Factor in 2010, with Payne alongside Horan, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Harry Styles. They were mentored on the show by Simon Cowell.
Payne has a seven-year-old son called Bear with singer Cheryl, who was a judge on The X Factor. Their relationship began in 2016 but they split in 2018.
Image: Payne with his son Bear
Image: Liam Payne and Cheryl in 2018. Pic: Reuters
Tributes poured in for Payne following his death.
Former X Factor host Dermot O’Leary posted a photo of himself and Payne on Instagram, writing: “The worst news. I remember him as a 14-year-old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing.
“He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble. Sending love and prayers to his family.”
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What we know so far after Liam Payne dies
Payne posted on social media in hours before death
Charlie Puth, who collaborated with Payne on the track Bedroom Floor, posted on Instagram: “I am in shock right now.
“Liam was always so kind to me. He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I cannot believe he is gone.”
Former X Factor contestants Jedward posted: “Sending strength to Cheryl and his son Bear and all the One Direction family.”
Another former contestant, TV presenter Rylan Clark, said: “Extremely sad news. (Very) tragic and so young. RIP Liam.”
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Liam Payne’s X Factor audition
Payne, who was born in Wolverhampton, had a complicated personal life and spoken openly about his struggles with alcoholism and mental health. He was also diagnosed with ADHD as an adult.
He had previously spoken about suffering with suicidal thoughts, admitting that he was “lucky to still be here”.
In 2019, Payne addressed his mental health on Sky show Straight Talking with Ant Middleton, where he spoke about his struggles with fame.
Describing fame as like “having a weird midlife crisis”, Payne said: “For some certain circumstances, I’m quite lucky to be here still.”
Since October 2022, Payne has been linked to influencer Cassidy, recently posting on Instagram that they “make each other better people”, and adding: “For the first time in my life I’m happy to be me and that’s priceless.”
He was previously engaged to Maya Henry, with their relationship ending in 2022.
Earlier this week, it was reported she had issued legal proceedings – instructing lawyers to issue a cease and desist letter to Payne – and she posted a video on TikTok claiming the singer had been repeatedly sending her unwanted messages.
Last week, the Sun reported Payne had parted with his management company and shelved plans for a second solo album.
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK
