The singer-songwriter, Liam Payne, died October 16, 2024 at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He died from falling from his third floor balcony. When police arrived they pronounced him dead on the scene.
Payne was in Argentina with his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, to see his former One Direction bandmate, Niall Horan, perform on tour. However, Cassidy had returned home two days before his death due to the fact that the short five day trip had extended to two weeks.
Payne’s rise to fame had come from his “X Factor” debut in 2010 where the band, One Direction, was formed. While they did not win that season they stayed together and released their single “What Makes You Beautiful” in the following year. From there they went on to make multiple albums, go on tour, and overall have a successful career. However, the band broke up in 2016 so each of its members could pursue their own music careers. Payne released 14 singles during his solo career, including one that came out earlier this year titled “Teardrops.”
Shortly before Payne’s death, hotel staff called 911 reporting someone trashing the place and that seemed to be under the influence of drugs and alcohol. They went on to state that they needed urgent help and that they don’t know if the guests life is at risk due to the fact that they had a balcony. The guest they were talking about was Payne. Police arrived at the hotel shortly after the call, but sadly it was too late. Payne’s body was found in the inner courtyard of the hotel.
An autopsy has been conducted to find the cause of death. It has been stated that he died of external and internal bleeding. The autopsy also found traces of cocaine and other types of recreational drugs in his system during his time of death. The police searched Payne’s room and found a series of substances as well as the whole place trashed. There is no evidence of anyone else in the room or behind Payne’s death. However, the investigation is still ongoing.
Payne has had issues with substance abuse in the past. Growing up under the media’s eye has intense pressure that comes with it. In a 2021 interview, Payne recounts his time on tour for One Direction. The members would be locked in their individual rooms because it was thought to be the best way to manage them. However, the rooms were stocked with a minibar leading to him having a party for one.
Following the news of Payne’s death, many have reached out including the members of One Direction. A post was made on the band’s Instagram page stating their sorrow and love for Payne. His funeral is expected to take place next month where his friends and family will attend, including his seven year old son, Bear.
