Shockwaves were felt worldwide last night as news broke of Liam Payne’s tragic passing at just 31 years old. The former One Direction star reportedly fell from a hotel balcony in Argentina, leading to widespread disbelief about the circumstances surrounding his death. As more details emerge, troubling information about the moments leading up to the incident has come to light, including a chilling video of his ex-fiancée discussing his struggles just two days prior.

Liam had been in Argentina since early October, attending a concert by former bandmate Niall Horan. This trip marked his second visit to Argentina for similar reasons, with his first being in May to support another concert by bandmate Louis Tomlinson. Just earlier this month, he shared a Snapchat post expressing a desire to reconnect with Horan, stating, “It’s been a while since me and Niall have spoken. We’ve got a lot to talk about.”

Reports indicate that during his time in Argentina, everything seemed fine—Liam was seen dancing and enjoying himself, even posting selfies with Horan, declaring them “reunited.” However, in the days leading up to his death, his online presence masked a growing distress. While initial reports claimed his social media activity occurred just hours before the tragedy, it has since been clarified that these posts were shared days earlier and continued until just an hour before the incident.

On the evening of October 16, around 5:00 p.m. local time, witnesses reported alarming behavior from Liam in the hotel lobby, where he allegedly smashed his laptop and exhibited aggressive conduct. Hotel management subsequently called 911, expressing concerns for his safety. A 911 call has since been released, describing a guest “off his head on drugs and alcohol,” and warning of the balcony in his hotel room.

Before police could arrive, tragedy struck—Liam is believed to have fallen from the third floor of the CasaSur hotel, resulting in severe injuries, including a cranial fracture that led to his immediate death. Alberto Cresen, head of Buenos Aires Emergency Services, confirmed that when they arrived, Liam’s injuries were “incompatible with life.” While the cause of death is now known, questions remain about the circumstances—whether his fall was accidental or intentional.

Photos allegedly taken inside Liam’s hotel room, reported by Argentinian outlet Clarin, showed a chaotic scene, including a smashed TV and signs of substance abuse. However, these images have yet to be officially verified. As news of his death spread, fans gathered outside the hotel while his body was taken away for an autopsy.

Liam’s passing comes on the heels of a tumultuous period in his life, particularly concerning his relationship with ex-fiancée Maya Henry. The couple, who were together from 2019 to 2022, had been at odds recently, particularly following the release of Henry’s book inspired by their relationship. In a podcast appearance just days before his death, Henry revealed that Liam had expressed troubling thoughts about not being around much longer, leaving her concerned for his wellbeing.

Henry described receiving calls from Liam and his friends urging her not to publish her book, suggesting that it might exacerbate his struggles. In the wake of Liam’s death, she has faced backlash and accusations of exploitation, although many have come to her defense, asserting that she could not have foreseen this tragic outcome.

Liam had been open about his mental health struggles over the years, speaking candidly in interviews about feelings of loneliness and the challenges of fame. He previously discussed how his battle with alcoholism began during his One Direction days, stating that he often turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism while feeling trapped in the confines of celebrity life.

The media response has also drawn criticism, particularly from TMZ, which faced backlash for publishing graphic images related to Liam’s passing. After public outcry, the outlet removed the images, but the harm was done, highlighting the disturbing reality of celebrity culture and its impact on mental health.

As the world mourns the loss of Liam Payne, thoughts are with his six-year-old son, his family, and millions of fans who adored him. As more information emerges in the coming days, the conversation around mental health, fame, and the pressures of celebrity life remains crucial.