Nearly a month after the shocking death of former One Direction member Liam Payne, authorities are still investigating whether it was a suicide or an accidental fall.

On October 16, the entertainment world was left in disbelief as news broke of Liam Payne’s tragic passing in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Payne, 31, reportedly fell from the third floor of the CasaSur Palermo Hotel. Now, more than three weeks later, Argentine authorities continue their probe into the incident, investigating possible involvement of illicit substances and prescription medications.

The autopsy revealed that Payne suffered severe trauma, resulting in internal and external bleeding due to his fall from a height of over 10 meters. Police in Buenos Aires are focusing their investigation on two hotel employees and a supposed friend of Payne, who may have been involved in the events leading up to his tragic end.

Key Findings from Payne’s Hotel Room

Inside Payne’s room, investigators found disarray, prescription medication bottles, alcohol, and a white powder suspected to be cocaine. Burned aluminum foil and other items related to substance use were also found, leading authorities to consider the possibility that Payne may have experienced a drug-induced psychotic episode.

Police Raid Homes of Hotel Employees

On November 5, TMZ reported that police had conducted searches of the homes of two CasaSur Palermo Hotel employees and an alleged friend of Payne. Investigators reviewed the employees’ lockers and accessed additional security footage to piece together events leading up to the singer’s fall.

Sources close to the investigation, including The Guardian and The New York Times, revealed that examining these materials is crucial in understanding Payne’s final hours. Phone records led authorities to the unnamed friend, who exchanged text messages with Payne before his death. However, this individual was not found at his residence, and police are actively searching for him. Sources from Reuters and BBC News suggest that investigators are exploring whether this person supplied drugs or played another role in the events.

Extensive Review of Security Footage

The Argentine police investigation includes an analysis of security cameras not only within the hotel but also in the surrounding area, hoping to construct a timeline of Payne’s last hours and verify witness statements. Authorities have not ruled out any theories, including the possibility of an accident, suicide, or third-party involvement.

The Industry Reacts to a Heartbreaking Loss

The sudden loss of Payne has sparked discussions about the pressures on artists in the music industry and the dangers associated with fame and substance use. His former bandmates, including Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik, have expressed their grief on social media, remembering Payne’s talent and charisma.

When Will Liam Payne’s Body Be Repatriated?

The repatriation of Payne’s body to London has been complex. Payne’s father, Geoff, traveled to Buenos Aires to oversee arrangements but encountered numerous administrative hurdles. According to La Nación, the bureaucratic process took two weeks, delaying the transfer despite initial expectations of a four-to-five-day timeline.

Currently, it is unclear if Payne’s remains have reached England, but it has been confirmed that the singer’s body will be embalmed at the British Cemetery in Buenos Aires before being transported to London. In London, a tribute is planned at the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, allowing friends, family, and fans to bid him farewell.

Payne’s death is a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of mental health care across all fields.