Three individuals face charges in Argentina related to the death of former One Direction singer Liam Payne, who died on October 16 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. The charges stem from allegations involving abandonment and drug involvement connected to Payne’s tragic fall.
Details of the Incident
Liam Payne, 31, was found dead after a fall from the balcony of the Casa Sur Palermo hotel, where he was staying in Buenos Aires. Prosecutors stated that Payne did not intentionally jump, and evidence suggests he was likely “not fully conscious” or experiencing a “decreased state of awareness” at the time of his fall, ruling out a voluntary act.
Charges Filed
The Argentinian National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office announced that three individuals have been formally charged. One individual, who reportedly spent considerable time with Payne during his stay, faces charges of "abandonment of a person followed by death," which carries a potential sentence of five to 15 years.
The two other individuals face charges related to supplying drugs, including cocaine, to Payne. One of these individuals is reportedly an employee at the hotel. The prosecutor’s office noted that all three individuals have been informed of the charges and are barred from leaving Argentina as the investigation continues. Authorities have not publicly identified the suspects.
Extensive Investigation and Evidence
The investigation into Payne’s death has been thorough, involving nine raids, interviews with hotel staff and Payne’s associates, and analysis from medical, biochemistry, and psychiatric experts. More than 800 hours of hotel surveillance footage and public road recordings were examined, and Payne’s phone underwent forensic analysis.
An autopsy was conducted, and toxicology tests revealed "traces" of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in Payne’s system, but only minor evidence of recent drug use. Injuries noted in the autopsy were solely attributed to his fall. After the autopsy, Payne’s body was released to his father, Geoff Payne, who traveled to Argentina following his son’s death.
Ongoing Investigation
The prosecutor's office submitted a detailed 180-page report to Judge Laura Bruniard, who authorized the charges against the three suspects. However, the investigation remains open as officials attempt to gain access to Payne’s additional personal devices to further understand the circumstances surrounding his final days.
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