October 18, 2024: The members of hugely successful pop group One Direction said they were “completely devastated” by the death of bandmate Liam Payne, who fell from the balcony of his Buenos Aires hotel room at the age of 31.
In Argentina, an autopsy suggested that the British singer had not tried to stop his fall on Wednesday, and “may have fallen in a state of semi or total unconsciousness” before his death.
“We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say,” One Direction bandmates Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan said on social media.
“But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly,” they said and added, “The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever.”
Each member of the group also took to social media to share individual tributes, reflecting on their deep connection with Payne.
Zayn Malik revealed that he had been speaking to his late friend, “hoping you can hear me.”
He reminisced about their bond, stating, “I lost a brother when you left us, and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly.”
“The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend,” he wrote.
Louis Tomlinson expressed his grief while sending a heartfelt message to Payne’s son, Bear. He shared, “I’m so grateful that we got even closer since the band, reminiscing about all the thousands of amazing memories we had together… I wish I got a chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.”
However, authorities later clarified that he had “jumped from the balcony of his room,” as per a statement from Pablo Policicchio, communications director for the Buenos Aires Security Ministry.
