The former One Direction star tragically passed away in October 2024.
Liam Payne’s medical cause of death has been officially confirmed as “polytrauma” following an inquest in the UK. The heartbreaking news comes months after the former One Direction star fell from a third-floor balcony at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in October 2024.
The term “polytrauma” refers to multiple traumatic injuries, which Payne suffered as a result of the fall. Dr. Roberto Victor Cohen confirmed the cause during the inquest, held in the UK. Liam, described as a “singer and entertainer” during the hearing, was formally identified with the assistance of funeral directors in Buckinghamshire.
Ongoing Investigations and Charges in Argentina
Authorities in Argentina continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Payne’s untimely passing, and five individuals have been charged in connection with his death.
The hotel’s manager, Gilda Martin, receptionist Esteban Grassi, and a friend of Payne, Roger Nores, have all been charged with manslaughter. Meanwhile, two other individuals—hotel employee Ezequiel Pereyra and waiter Braian Paiz—are accused of supplying cocaine.
In a statement, Argentina’s National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the charges, highlighting the seriousness of the case.
During the inquest, Senior Coroner Crispin Butler acknowledged the complexity of the ongoing international investigation. “Whilst there are ongoing investigations in Argentina into the circumstances of Liam’s death, over which I have no legal jurisdiction, it is anticipated that procuring the relevant information to address particularly how Liam came by his death may take some time through the formal channel of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office,” Butler explained.
Toxicology Report Findings
A toxicology report revealed further details about Payne’s condition in the days leading up to his death. Traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant were detected in his system.
A press release from Argentinian officials elaborated on the findings: “The results of the toxicological studies—already communicated to his family—revealed that, in the moments before his death and in the span of at least his last 72 hours, Payne only had on his body traces of a polyconsumption of alcohol, cocaine and a prescription antidepressant. That conclusion was reached after the complete toxicological analyses on urine, blood and vitreous humor, carried out in a very short time.”
A Private Goodbye for Liam Payne
Liam Payne, who passed away at the age of 31, was laid to rest in a private service in Buckinghamshire in November 2024. The funeral was attended by his One Direction bandmates Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik.
Payne’s former partner Cheryl Tweedy, with whom he shared a seven-year-old son, Bear, was also present to say her final goodbyes. The ceremony was further attended by Simon Cowell, the music mogul and former X Factor judge who helped launch Payne’s career with One Direction.
The outpouring of grief extended worldwide, with countless fans paying tribute to Payne’s life and legacy. From heartfelt social media posts to candlelit vigils, the singer’s global impact as a musician and entertainer was abundantly clear.
A Reminder of the Fragility of Life
Payne’s death is a harsh reality check on how fleeting life can be and the heavy toll that fame and its pressures can take. The ongoing investigations highlight the need to dig deeper into what happened and hold those involved accountable for any preventable mistakes that may have led to this tragedy.
If you have experienced a bereavement and need someone to talk to, you can contact GrieveWell at (734) 975-0238 or email them at [email protected].
For those seeking confidential advice or help regarding substance use, American Addiction Centers are available 24/7 at (313) 209-9137 or through their website.