In a 911 call obtained by Reuters on Thursday, the hotel's reception head can be heard, in Spanish, calling for medical assistance for "a guest who is intoxicated by drugs and alcohol ." At the times when the guest had been "conscious," he was "breaking the whole room," the hotel staff member also says on the 911 call.
The operator then confirms the hotel's location before the staff member adds: "We need you to send someone urgently because, well, I don't know if the guest's life is at risk. He has a room with a balcony. And, well, we are a little afraid that he will do something that will put his life at risk."
The hotel manager said Payne had been staying at the hotel "two or three days."
In a statement on Wednesday, the Argentinian capital police said they were called to the hotel in the capital's Palermo neighborhood where they were notified of an "aggressive man who could be under the effects of drugs and alcohol."
Buenos Aires police said Payne's fall resulted in "extremely serious injuries," and he was confirmed dead at the scene, reports The Associated Press . Alberto Crescenti, head of Buenos Aires' public emergency medical services, confirmed Payne's death in a statement to local media, per Todo Noticias and La Nacion .
USA TODAY has reached out to representatives for Payne and Casa Sur hotel, as well as the city of Buenos Aires, for comment.
"We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing," the statement began . "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."
The statement concluded: "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."
Contributing: KiMi Robinson, USA TODAY; Reuters
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorders, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). The service is free, confidential and available in English and Spanish.
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