BUENOS AIRES — Argentine authorities have formally charged three individuals in connection with the October 16 death of British musician Liam Payne, who fell from a hotel balcony in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires. The charges include abandonment of a person resulting in death, and the supply and facilitation of narcotics.
The investigation, led by Criminal Prosecutor No. 14 Andrés Esteban Madrea, revealed evidence of illicit conduct involving Payne’s companions and hotel staff during his stay. Prosecutors allege that Payne, a former member of the band One Direction, was subjected to a series of actions that contributed to his death.
According to authorities, Payne fell from the third-floor balcony of the Casa Sur hotel, resulting in fatal injuries. An extensive investigation ensued, involving over 800 hours of surveillance footage, witness testimonies, and forensic analysis of Payne’s personal belongings, including his cell phone. Toxicology reports indicated that Payne had consumed alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in the 72 hours preceding his death.
Prosecutors have charged Payne’s close companion, who was reportedly with him throughout his stay in Buenos Aires, with abandonment of a person resulting in death, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison under Argentine law. This individual is also accused of supplying and facilitating narcotics. Additionally, a hotel employee and a second drug supplier were charged with providing cocaine to Payne on multiple occasions in the days before his death.
The investigation, based on evidence gathered from witness accounts, video footage, digital communications, and toxicology results, suggests that Payne was under the influence of substances at the time of the incident. Medical examiners concluded that his injuries were consistent with a fall from height, ruling out self-inflicted harm or physical interference by others. Autopsy findings indicated that Payne showed no defensive or reflexive response to the fall, suggesting he may have been partially or fully unconscious.
“This incident was a tragic case of neglect and exploitation,” Prosecutor Madrea stated. “The evidence shows a clear pattern of drug facilitation and a failure to seek help, leading to devastating consequences.”
Judge Laura Graciela Bruniard approved search warrants for multiple locations in Buenos Aires, which resulted in additional evidence supporting the charges. She also issued a travel ban on the three accused individuals.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with authorities stressing their commitment to thorough and transparent communication via official channels, while respecting the memory of the musician.
Further investigative steps are ongoing, including attempts to retrieve data from a damaged laptop belonging to Payne, which may provide additional insights into the events leading up to his death.