Reports suggest that police were called to the hotel following reports of a "man acting aggressively at the hotel who could be under the effect of drink or drugs." It is believed that Liam fell from a height of around 13 or 14 meters, resulting in "very serious injuries incompatible with life." The authorities found the music icon's hotel room in "in complete disarray" with "various items broken."
In an official statement released to The Associated Press, Argentinian police revealed that the father-of-one had "jumped from the balcony of his room," thereby dismissing any speculations of an accidental fall or foul play. Local media reports suggest that Liam might have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Hotel staff made a desperate call to emergency services requesting "urgent" support just before his death. Geoff and Karen Payne reportedly left "in a hurry" around midnight as news of Liam's death reached their home in Wolverhampton, England, reports the Mirror .
Following the devastating news, Liam's family said in a statement: "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."
One Direction has issued a heartfelt statement after the tragic loss of Liam Payne. Signed by "Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry" the band shares, "We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly."
They continued, "The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam."
Meanwhile, Cheryl Tweedy, Liam's ex-girlfriend and mother to his seven year old son Bear, expressed her sorrow.
She worried about the future when Bear grows up and comes across the "exploitation" that targeted his late father. Following the sad news of Liam's fall, TMZ faced backlash for posting images of the aftermath; an act deemed "sick" by many.
Cheryl stated, "What is troubling my spirit the most is that one day Bear will have access to the abhorrent reports and media exploitation we have seen in the past two days."
"We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly."
"The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam."
"What is troubling my spirit the most is that one day Bear will have access to the abhorrent reports and media exploitation we have seen in the past two days."
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