Authorities in Argentina are investigating the circumstances surrounding Liam Payne’s tragic fall from a hotel balcony, believing that various substances may have contributed to his death. Sources informed ABC News that a popular yet potentially dangerous party drug, along with benzodiazepines and crack, were found in his system.
Initial reports suggested that Payne’s fall, approximately 45 feet, might not have been an accident. Prosecutors have questioned five individuals, including three hotel employees and two women who were seen with him shortly before the incident. Just over a week after his fall, police raided the hotel, seizing surveillance footage and computers, revealing concerning details that challenge the narrative of an accidental death.
In a surprising twist, Zayn Malik, Payne’s former bandmate, has postponed his tour to honor Liam, hinting at a belief that his death was not solely related to personal struggles. Witnesses reported seeing Payne distressed, arguing with a woman about money, and acting erratically, which raises suspicions about the events leading to his fall.
Reports indicate that Payne’s hotel room was in disarray, with substances scattered about and even a broken TV. A postmortem examination revealed that he suffered from multiple injuries, including a skull fracture, and some forensic experts suggest that the number of injuries is inconsistent with a single fall, raising questions of possible foul play.
Authorities are now considering potential criminal charges against those involved, particularly concerning the supply and facilitation of narcotics. The investigation is focused on Roger Norris, Payne’s manager, who was present at the hotel on the night of the fall. Norris has a controversial business history that raises further questions about his involvement.
Additionally, troubling details have emerged about Payne’s mental state leading up to his death. Hours before he fell, he was reportedly agitated, and recordings from that night reveal a hotel receptionist urgently seeking medical help for him. This prompts speculation about the role of his support system, particularly Norris, in his declining mental health.
The dynamics between Payne and his ex-fiancée, Maya Henry, also come into play, with speculation surrounding her influence on his struggles. Just days before his fall, her novel was released, which drew unsettling parallels to Payne’s situation, fueling further public scrutiny.
Zayn Malik’s heartfelt tribute on social media serves as a poignant reminder of their friendship, with fans left questioning the circumstances that led to Payne’s untimely death. As the investigation continues, many are left to ponder the complexities of mental health, substance use, and the responsibility of those close to individuals in crisis.
