The former One Direction star, Liam Payne, died falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024. An Argentina judge has confirmed charges against five individuals in connection with the tragic death.
The National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office of Argentina charges manslaughter and drug-related offences.
Among those charged are Payne’s manager, identified only by initials, and the hotel manager, Gilda Martin, and Esteban Grassi, the head receptionist at the Casa Sur Hotel where the incident occurred.
These three individuals face manslaughter charges due to their alleged negligence in caring for Pyne during his stay. The judge emphasized that they failed to fulfil their responsibilities, which contributed to the circumstances leading to his death.
Additionally, two other individuals—a hotel employee and a waiter—are accused of supplying Payne with narcotics before his fatal fall. Reports indicate these two have been placed in preventive custody as they await trial.
The toxicology report revealed that Payne had traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescribed antidepressant in his system at the time of his death. The autopsy confirmed that he succumbed to multiple traumas caused by the fall, ruling out suicide or foul play.
Judge Laura Bruniard, the head of the National Criminal and Correctional Court No. 34, said: “Bringing Payne up to room 310 in that state, where he was staying, was creating a legally unacceptable risk to his life.”
“The testimony gathered by the prosecutor proved that Payne had a history of addiction. the presence of cocaine and alcohol in large quantities.”
The judge also said, “The singer was seen unconscious and being dragged by three people, and the way he was being handled shows a state of vulnerability.”
Bruniard said, “Payne’s consciousness was altered, and there was a balcony in the room. The proper thing to do was to leave him in a safe place and with company until a doctor arrived.
I believed that the [manager and head of reception] did not act maliciously about the singer’s death, but they were imprudent in allowing him to be taken to the room.”
Forensic experts concluded Payne fell onto the hotel restaurant’s patio “without any sign of defence,” as he had multiple injuries to his body, particularly his head.
The legal proceedings against these five individuals were allowed to move forward following a decision by Judge Laura Bruniard on December 27.
A trial date is expected to be set in January 2025. If convicted of manslaughter, the accused could face up to five years in prison; those charged with drug provision often face even harsher penalties of up to 15 years.
Payne’s sudden death has sparked widespread grief among fans and fellow artists. Thousands gathered globally to pay tribute to the singer, reflecting on his impact as a member of one of the most successful boy bands in history. His passing has raised questions about the responsibilities of those around him during his final hours.