Liam Payne was laid to rest today, over a month after his tragic death at age 31.
The former One Direction star fell to his death from a third-floor balcony of the Hotel CasaSur in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires on October 16.
Liam Payne passed away on October 16. Credit: Shirlaine Forrest / Getty
The late singer's funeral service took place at a private service held in the Home Counties on Wednesday, November 20.
A heartbreaking floral display of bowling pins and a ball was set up outside the church ahead of the funeral - reflecting the late singer's love of bowling. A flower tribute that said "daddy" and "son" was also set up at the service.
The ceremony was attended by Payne's family, Cheryl, the mother of his seven-year-old son Bear, his girlfriend Kate Cassidy, and his closest friends.
His four One Direction bandmates: Louis Tomlinson, 32, Niall Horan, 31, Zayn Malik, 31, and Harry Styles, 30, were also among those paying their respects.
Simon Cowell, TV host James Corden, Cheryl's Girls Aloud bandmates, Nicole Roberts, and Kimberley Walsh, ex-footballer Robbie Keane, were also there to bid a final farewell to the late musician.
Liam Payne was a member of One Direction. Credit: Ian Gavan / Getty
The 'What Makes You Beautiful' singer was one of the biggest names in pop, having shot to fame with his One Direction bandmates after forming on The X Factor in 2010.
Payne's sudden death sent shockwaves around the world. According to The Guardian, officials pronounced the star dead at the scene, saying he had suffered a “very serious injury” to the base of the skull.
The forensic medical corps also concluded that the star's tragic passing was caused by “multiple traumas” and “internal and external hemorrhage” resulting from the fatal fall.
In addition to this, toxicology tests found that when he died, Payne had traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in his body, according to prosecutors.
An investigation has been launched into his death by prosecutors, and three people - two hotel employees, and an Argentine businessman - have been apprehended by police.
The prosecutor's statement shared a statement about the investigation, which read that "illicit conduct was discovered from which three people were charged with the crimes of abandonment of a person followed by death, supply, and facilitation of narcotics," cited by NBC News.
Our thoughts continue to be with Payne's loved ones.
Liam Payne's funeral is set to take place today, just over a month after the singer tragically died at the age of 31.
The beloved One Direction star fell to his death from a third-floor balcony of the Hotel CasaSur in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires on October 16.
Liam Payne passed away on October 16. Credit: Gareth Cattermole / Getty
Authorities pronounced Payne dead at the scene, saying he had suffered a “very serious injury” to the base of the skull, The Guardian reported.
The forensic medical corps also concluded that the 'Strip That Down' star's tragic passing was caused by “multiple traumas” and “internal and external hemorrhage” resulting from the fatal fall.
In addition to this, toxicology tests found that when he died, Payne had traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in his body, according to prosecutors.
Liam Payne will be laid to rest today. Credit: Marc Piasecki / Getty
The 'Teardrops' vocalist will be laid to rest today (Wednesday, November 20) at a service held in the Home Counties.
The ceremony will be closed to the public, attended by just his parents, two sisters, Nicola and Ruth, Cheryl, the mother of his seven-year-old son Bear, his girlfriend Kate Cassidy, and his closest friends.
His four One Direction bandmates: Louis Tomlinson, 32, Niall Horan, 31, Zayn Malik, 31, and Harry Styles, 30, are expected to be among those paying their respects.
"Liam's family want his funeral to go off without a hitch and right now opinions are strained when it comes to Roger," an insider close to the situation reportedly told the outlet. "It's true he and Liam had a bond but he's never been popular when it comes to Liam's wider circle.
"There is a difference in the narrative, Roger would say he stepped back from working with Liam - others would say he was pushed," he said, adding that the late star's loved ones had no idea the duo had "reconnected" until Payne's "fateful trip to Argentina last month."
"Due to the ongoing investigation in Argentina, he's not welcome at this week's service," the source added.
Payne found fame in One Direction. Credit: Fred Duval / Getty
The 'What Makes You Beautiful' singer's sudden death sent shockwaves around the world.
In a group statement following his death, the late singer's bandmates said they were "completely devastated", and will miss Payne "terribly".
“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," they said,
“The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. 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,” One Direction concluded.
An investigation has been launched into Payne's death by prosecutors, and three people have been charged in connection with the incident.
Payne was tragically pronounced dead after having suffered injuries "incompatible with life".
His body had been held in Argentina pending an autopsy and toxicology tests, but has since been released to his family for repatriation to the UK, where he will be laid to rest.
Further toxicology and laboratory tests were also undertaken to establish the circumstances that led to Payne's death, with the results yet to be confirmed.
Payne fell from a third-floor hotel balcony in Argentina. Credit: Tobias Skarlovnik / Getty
The star's father, Geoff Payne, had traveled to Argentina after news of his son's death broke and had remained in the country until he was able to bring him back to the UK.
Payne's body is set to be repatriated to the UK for a funeral, however, fans have urged others not to turn up to attend it in person.
Fans have been leaving floral tributes, balloons, cards, and photos of Payne at a church where his funeral is believed to be being held.
Several fan-organized memorials have also taken place around the world to pay tribute to the star.
Many have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to urge others not to attend the main funeral, in order to allow Payne's family and bandmates to grieve in peace.
Fans have held memorials around the world since Payne's death. Credit: Alishia Abodunde/Getty Images
They wrote: "A reminder to everyone thinking of going to Liam's funeral. A few articles have stated how the funeral will be private and low-key so please, let his loved ones mourn in peace and privacy. Memorials were for the fans, his funeral is for the people who knew him personally."
Another added: "Liam is finally home and in a way that's comforting to know. He's finally in peace. - Just a reminder that his funeral is not a public event and it's not right to go there. It's important to remember that."
Others wrote: "This is a friendly reminder if you plan on attending Liam Payne funeral DONT it’s for family and close friends ONLY you don’t have the right as a fan to attend so get that idea out your head THANKS," and: "Now that Liam Payne is finally in his way home I don’t wanna see a single one of you trying to get sneak into the funeral. For f**ks sake that is the biggest violation of privacy and if you do that you are not a fan. You’re a weirdo. Let him rest and let his family grieve."
Payne's girlfriend Kate Cassidy had left Argentina two days before he died. Credit: Dave Benett / Getty Images
Payne had been in Argentina with his girlfriend Kate Cassidy, who'd left the country two days before his death.
The singer had met up with One Direction bandmate Niall Horan and attended one of the singer's shows just days beforehand.
Reports suggest that Payne's family is plannign to hold a "huge" memorial service for the singer, with many of his celebrity friends expected to attend to pay their last respects to the 'Strip That Down' star.
Payne is survived by his mother, father, and two sisters, as well as his seven-year-old son, Bear, who he shared with ex-girlfriend Cheryl Cole.
Liam Payne is reportedly expected to be laid to rest at a funeral in the UK this week, following his tragic death at the age of 31.
Liam Payne is expected to be laid to rest this week. Credit: Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images
The beloved One Direction singer passed away on October 16, having fallen from a third-floor balcony of a hotel he was staying at in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The singer suffered internal and external hemorrhaging, with authorities later revealing that his injuries were so severe that there was no possibility of resuscitation.
Payne's sudden death sent shockwaves around the world, leaving his loved ones and fans in mourning. Now, The Sun has reported that Payne will be laid to rest this week at a ceremony that is due to take place in the singer's hometown of Wolverhampton.
Liam Payne tragically died at the age of 31. Credit: Jeff Spicer / Getty
The outlet has also reported that one person is "not welcome" at the funeral -- and that is Payne's manager Roger Nores.
A source close to the situation reportedly told The Sun: "Liam's family want his funeral to go off without a hitch and right now opinions are strained when it comes to Roger.
"It's true he and Liam had a bond but he's never been popular when it comes to Liam's wider circle.
"There is a difference in the narrative, Roger would say he stepped back from working with Liam - others would say he was pushed."
The source added that some of those close to the One Direction star had no idea the pair had "reconnected" until Payne's "fateful trip to Argentina last month."
"Due to the ongoing investigation in Argentina, he's not welcome at this week's service," the source added.
Fans have held memorials around the world since Payne's death. Credit: Alishia Abodunde/Getty Images
It has been reported that Nores was with Payne at the Casa Sur hotel shortly before the singer's tragic death. As a result, he is currently being investigated by Argentinian authorities.
As reported by ABC News, a press release from the Argentinian authorities confirmed earlier this month that three people had been arrested and charged in connection with the singer's death.
The three individuals were charged with abandonment of a person followed by death as well as supply and facilitation of narcotics. The release added that "illicit conduct was discovered from which three people were charged with the crimes."
One of those arrested was an employee at the hotel, Braian Nahuel Paiz, who spoke out earlier this month in an interview with US Weekly.
Payne, a father of one, died in Argentina. Credit: Stephane Cardinale - Corbis / Getty
He told the magazine: "I want to contribute everything: my phone, everything to the investigation. I have nothing that can harm me. The other thing is to contribute what I saw personally and what I experienced firsthand," Paiz said, reports the Mirror.
A toxicology report has now been shared as the star's body has been released to be repatriated to the UK, which confirms the star was "not fully conscious" when he fell.
The report states that in the 72 hours before his death, Payne had traces of "alcohol, cocaine and prescription antidepressants" in his body, according to the press release translated from Spanish.
It also stated: "This conclusion was reached after the complete toxicology tests on urine, blood and vitreous humour."
Our thoughts continue to go out to Payne's family, friends, and loved ones at this time.
Following the heartbreaking news of Liam Payne's sudden and tragic passing, each of his former One Direction bandmates have now penned a touching tribute to the star.
Credit: Mike Marsland/WireImage/Getty
On Wednesday (October 16), it was reported that Payne had tragically died at the age of 31 after a tragic fall at a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Payne had been staying at the Hotel CasaSur, when he suffered a fatal fall from a third floor room balcony.
The BBC reports that the head of Buenos Aires's SAME emergency medical service, Alberto Crescenti, told local television that Payne had suffered "very serious injuries incompatible with life as a result of his fall" and there was "no possibility of resuscitation".
According to reports, the results of Payne's preliminary autopsy have been confirmed, stating that the singer suffered severe injuries that led to “internal and external hemorrhaging” from the fall.
Further tests are currently ongoing amid the investigation into the circumstances of his death.
As fans, friends, and family alike have all paid tribute to the star, so have Payne's former bandmates - with whom he helped create one of the most successful groups in the history of the music industry: One Direction.
Payne found fame in One Direction. Credit: Fred Duval / Getty
Here are the full individual statements from each member.
Louis Tomlinson:
Credit: Samir Hussein/Redferns/Getty
I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother. Liam was somebody I looked up to everyday, such a positive, funny, and kind soul.
I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, I was instantly amazed by his voice but more importantly as time went on I got a chance to see the kind brother I’d longed all my life for.
Liam was an incredible song writer with a great sense of melody, we often spoke of getting back in the studio together to try and recreate the writing chemistry we had built up in the band.
And for the record, Liam was in my opinion the most vital part of One Direction. His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on. Thank you for shaping us Liam.
A message to you Liam if you’re listening,
I feel beyond lucky to have had you in my life but I’m really struggling with the idea of saying goodbye. I’m so grateful that we got even closer since the band, speaking on the phone for hours, reminiscing about all the thousands of amazing memories we had together is a luxury I thought I’d have with you for life. I would have loved to share the stage with you again but it wasn’t to be.
I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the Uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.
I wish I got chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.
Payno, my boy, one of my best friends, my brother, I love you mate. Sleep well X
Zayn Malik:
Credit: Stefania D'Alessandro / Getty
Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me, I can't help but think selfishly that there was so many more conversations for us to have in our lives.
I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life.
When I was missing home as a 17 yr old kid you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved.
Even though you were younger than me you were always more sensible than me, you were headstrong, opinionated, and gave no [expletive]s about telling people when they were wrong.
Even though we butted heads because of this a few times, I always secretly respected you for it.
When it came to the music Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense. I knew nothing in comparison, was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional. I was always happy to know, no matter what happened on stage we could always rely on you to know which way to steer the ship next.
I lost a brother when you left us and can't explain to you what I'd give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly. I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever, there is no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated.
I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and are at peace and you know how loved you are.
His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it.
Liam lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious. He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving. The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.
My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicola and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did.
Niall Horan:
Credit: Snapchat/LiamPayne
I'm absolutely devastated about the passing of my amazing friend, Liam. It just doesn't feel real.
Liam had an energy for life and a passion for work that was infectious. He was the brightest in every room and always made everyone feel happy and secure.
All the laughs we had over the years, sometimes about the simplest of things, keep coming to mind through the sadness. We got to live out our wildest dreams together and I will cherish every moment we had forever. The bond and friendship we had doesn't happen often in a litetime.
I feel so fortunate that I got to see him recently. I sadly didn't know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that evening, I would be saying goodbye forever. It's heartbreaking.
My love and condolences go out to Geoff, Karen, Ruth, Nicola and of course his son Bear.
Thank you for everything, Payno.
Love you brother.
Nialler
One Direction - Group Statement:
One Direction. Credit: Mark Metcalfe / Getty
We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing.
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.
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.
Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry.
Credit: Dave J Hogan/Getty
Payne had originally auditioned for The X Factor back in 2008, but was asked by Simon Cowell to come back two years later.
As fate would have it, it would set Liam on the path to becoming one of the most successful names in modern pop music.
During his 2010 stint on the reality show, Payne was grouped with four other solo contestants to form a new boy band. Along with Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson, the five-piece became One Direction - a group that would go on to change the landscape of modern pop music.
The group quickly gained popularity in the UK and abroad, and although they ended up finishing third in the competition, Simon Cowell would sign them to his Syco Records following the show.
They released their debut album, Up All Night in 2011, which became a top seller in multiple countries.
Payne (second right) found global fame as a member of One Direction. Credit: Christopher Polk/Getty Images for Clear Channel
One Direction went on to have a multitude of number one albums and singles across the globe over the years - with some comparing their popularity to that of "BeetleMania" in the 60s.
Following One Direction's hiatus in 2016, Payne embarked on a solo career. He signed a deal with Republic Records in North America, and his debut single 'Strip That Down' featuring Quavo, released in 2017, was a commercial success. It marked his emergence as a solo artist with a more R&B and pop sound, distinct from the pop rock style of One Direction.
Our thoughts continue to go out to Payne's family, friends, and fans at this time.
Warning: This article contains details that some readers will find upsetting.
Last week, it was tragically announced that Liam Payne had passed away suddenly at the age of 31.
Liam Payne tragically died at the age of 31. Credit: Slaven Vlasic / Getty
The former One Direction singer had been staying at the CasaSur hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
During his time in the country, he attended a concert of former 1D bandmate, Niall Horan, along with his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy. The couple seemed in good spirits as Payne shared footage of them dancing at the concern on his social media pages, and later shared selfies with Horan.
Liam had attended one of Niall's concerts. Credit: Snapchat/LiamPayne
Sadly, two days after Cassidy left the country, the heartbreaking news broke that Payne had died following a fall from the balcony of his third-floor hotel room.
Despite authorities attending to the singer promptly, Payne's injuries were so severe that first responders stated that there had been "no possibility of resuscitation".
The singer's father, Geoff, has since traveled to the city for the recognition of the body and to arrange its repatriation.
The results of Payne's preliminary autopsy were released on Thursday, detailing that the singer suffered severe injuries that led to “internal and external hemorrhaging” from the fall, according to a post-mortem carried out by two forensic pathologists in Buenos Aires.
Alberto Crescenti, head of the Buenos Aires emergency services, previously revealed Payne had a "cranial fracture and extremely serious injuries that led to his immediate death".
Tributes have poured in for the singer. Credit: Andrew Chin/Getty
With tributes pouring in for the singer, authorities in Argentina have released more details regarding Payne's tragic death.
In a statement to AP, authorities confirmed that medics confirmed Payne's death at the scene, adding that he had suffered "extremely serious injuries".
Forensic experts later concluded that "the 25 injuries described in the autopsy are compatible with those caused by a fall from a height".
Additionally, the Public Prosecutor's Office has said in a statement: "The head injuries were sufficient to cause death, while the internal and external hemorrhages in the skull, chest, abdomen and limbs contributed to the mechanism of death."
It adds that police were already arriving at the hotels following emergency calls just after 5:00PM from a hotel manager expressing concerns about the safety of an unnamed male guest.
In the official statement, police authorities state that the 31-year-old had "jumped from the balcony of his room", with forensic experts detailing that Payne had no "defensive type" injuries and that his wounds were "vital and produced at the same time as each other".
Credit: Stephane Cardinale - Corbis / Getty
The Buenos Aires police also said in its statement that the singer's hotel room was "in complete disarray".
According to Argentinian outlet La Nacion, per AP, authorities are ruling out "the intervention of third parties". That being said, Argentine prosecutors said on Thursday that they are investigating the events leading up to the singer's death, which they described as "suspicious" - citing potential drug and alcohol use.
Per The Mirror, the singer's body is expected to remain in Argentina for a further 10 to 15 days, until the results of toxicological tests are known. The outlet adds that Payne's medical history may be requested to analyze his mental health history.
As authorities await the results, the singer's tragic death is currently deemed "inconclusive" by Argentina's National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor's Office, according to a report from the Daily Mail.
Payne was 1/5 of the popular boyband One Direction. Credit: Kevin Mazur/WireImage/Getty
Following Payne's death, each of his One Direction bandmates have shared a heartfelt tribute to the singer - they can all be read in full, here.
Our thoughts continue to go out the Payne's family, friends, and fans at this time.