Authorities Report Liam Payne ‘Jumped from His Hotel Balcony’ Before His Death at 31

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Liam Payne.
Photo: Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / SplashNews.com

Liam Payne, the former One Direction singer, died at the age of 31 after reportedly jumping from the balcony of his hotel room in Buenos Aires, Argentina, local authorities confirmed to People on Wednesday, Oct. 16. The tragic incident occurred at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel, where Payne was pronounced dead following a fall from multiple stories.

Pablo Policicchio, communications director for the Buenos Aires Security Ministry, shared details about the incident, which were also reported by the Associated Press. Police responded to the scene shortly after 5 p.m. local time, and Payne was declared deceased shortly thereafter.

According to Alberto Crescenti, the head of SAME, Buenos Aires’ public emergency medical services, Payne sustained “a fracture at the base of the skull” from the fall, as reported by Argentine news outlet TN. An investigation is currently underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, with an autopsy set to be performed.

A 911 call made by the hotel’s chief receptionist has drawn attention to the events leading up to Payne’s death. Translations from multiple outlets, including Sky News and the BBC, indicate that the receptionist expressed concern about Payne’s behavior prior to the incident. The worker stated that the musician appeared intoxicated and was “under the influence of alcohol and drugs.” Urgently, the receptionist requested assistance, noting that someone needed to respond “urgently” to the location.

During the call, Payne’s name was not specifically mentioned, but the receptionist conveyed that the guest’s life might be “in danger” due to his access to a balcony. “We’re afraid he could do something that threatens his life,” the manager, identified as “Esteban,” told authorities. The BBC transcript further revealed that the worker reported that Payne had been “trashing the entire room” prior to the incident.

In the wake of the tragedy, Payne’s family expressed their heartbreak. “Liam will forever live in our hearts,” they said in a statement. Fans and fellow celebrities around the world have paid tribute to the singer, reflecting on his impact in the music industry and beyond.

Payne rose to fame in 2010 as a member of One Direction, which formed on the U.K. version of The X Factor. Alongside bandmates Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson, he became part of one of the most successful boy bands in history, garnering a massive fan base worldwide.

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Though Styles, Malik, Horan, and Tomlinson have yet to comment publicly on Payne’s passing, tributes from fans and celebrities have flooded social media. Harry Styles’ mother, in a poignant three-word tribute, referred to Payne as “just a boy,” underscoring the emotional impact of the news.

Payne is survived by his 7-year-old son, Bear Grey, whom he shares with his ex-partner, Cheryl, a member of the British girl group Girls Aloud. The singer’s untimely death has left many questioning the pressures faced by celebrities in the public eye, especially those who struggle with mental health and substance abuse issues.

As authorities continue their investigation, the music community mourns the loss of a talented artist whose career began at a young age. Payne’s contributions to the music industry and his ability to connect with fans will not be forgotten.

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