Hollywood is mourning the sudden death of former One Direction band member, Liam Payne, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 31.
The UK-born pop star was staying at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, when he tragically fell to his death. A police statement announced that “Liam James Payne, composer and guitarist, former member of the band One Direction, died today after falling from the third floor of a hotel.”
While reports indicate that the singer fell from his balcony, it remains unclear whether the fall was accidental.Witnesses noted Payne appeared “erratic” earlier in the day, with some reporting that he had been seen in the hotel lobby smashing his laptop.
Payne leaves behind a 7-year-old son, Bear, whom he shared with singer Cheryl.
The news of his passing has sent shockwaves across the music industry, with tributes pouring in from fellow artists. Singer Charlie Puth took to Instagram, sharing a series of photos with Payne alongside a heartfelt message. “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 can not believe he is gone … I am so upset right now, may he rest in peace.”
Fellow musician Zedd also expressed his grief, posting, “RIP Liam… I can’t believe this is real… absolutely heartbreaking…”
Juicy J also took to his handle to tweet, “R.I.P. Liam Payne wow I can’t believe it prayers up for the family”
Paris Hilton also sent her condolences in a tweet that read, “So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. RIP my friend.”
Payne had been in Argentina earlier this month to attend a concert by his former bandmate, Niall Horan. He shared updates on social media, including videos of his time in Buenos Aires with his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy. In his last post, he wrote, “Happy I got some time away” and “Lovely day in Argentina,” while sharing images of the couple together.
The videos, however, suggested that Cassidy had already returned to Florida, as she posted about being “back in the sunshine state” two days ago.
The circumstances surrounding Payne’s death are still under investigation, as fans, friends, and family try to come to terms with the tragic loss of a beloved figure in the world of pop music.
