SINGER Liam Payne, former member of the popular boy band One Direction, has died at age 31 after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Wednesday.

Police and emergency responders confirmed the incident but have not yet determined if the fall was accidental. Payne had previously spoken about his struggles with alcohol. Local police said they had responded to reports of “an aggressive man who may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”

Following news of Payne’s death, fans gathered near the hotel, many in their 20s and 30s. Medical personnel were still on the scene. “The news hit me hard,” said 27-year-old fan Pilar Bilik outside the hotel.

Reality star Paris Hilton shared her condolences on social media, writing, “So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing. Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. RIP my friend,” along with a crying emoji.

So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. RIP my friend

In a statement, the police confirmed, “Liam James Payne, composer and guitarist, former member of the band One Direction, died today after falling from the third floor of a hotel.”

Alberto Crescenti, head of Buenos Aires’ emergency medical service, told local media there had been “no possibility of resuscitation.” Emergency responders arrived at the Casa Sur hotel following an emergency call and confirmed Payne’s death shortly after.

Crescenti added that Payne appeared to have sustained a fracture at the base of his skull after falling from a height of around 13 or 14 metres (43-46 feet).

The UK’s foreign office said it was in contact with Argentine authorities but did not identify Payne or provide further comment.

Reports of a disturbance

Argentine media reported that hotel staff had made an emergency call, saying a guest appeared to be “on drugs and destroying the room.” The hotel manager expressed concerns that the guest, later identified as Payne, might harm himself due to access to the balcony Read More…..