The body of pop star Liam Payne was released to his family on Wednesday to be flown back to the UK, the public prosecutor in charge of his case has confirmed to the BBC. The singer died three weeks ago after falling from a third-floor balcony of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
An autopsy confirmed the 31-year-old had suffered internal and external bleeding and multiple traumatic injuries sustained as a result of the fall.
His body had been held in Argentina while local authorities completed further toxicology and laboratory tests. It was released to his family on Wednesday, public prosecutor Andrés Madrea told the BBC. Liam Payne was one of the most recognisable names in pop, after rising to fame with the boyband One Direction in the 2010s.
A co-writer on many of their hits, he also achieved solo success with tracks like Strip That Down and Bedroom Floor.
Liam Payne’s body
In the week leading up to his death, it was revealed the singer was facing legal action from his ex-fiancee Maya Henry, who had issued a cease and desist order over what she described as “obsessive” contact. Payne’s girlfriend at the time of his death, Kate Cassidy, said the couple had been planning to get married.
The singer’s family said they were “heartbroken” by his death, adding: “Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. In October, some media outlets reported preliminary toxicology tests, which the Associated Press (AP) news agency said suggested evidence of exposure to cocaine, quoting an unnamed official.
But they said the official stressed that the initial results don’t give an accurate idea of how much of the drug was in his blood when he died.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office in Argentina is continuing to investigate the circumstances around his death.
The music world has been left in shock and mourning following the tragic news of Liam Payne’s passing. A beloved member of the global music scene, Payne rose to fame as a member of the iconic boy band One Direction and later pursued a successful solo career. Now, as plans are being made to transport his body back to the UK for final arrangements, fans, friends, and family members are coming together to remember the legacy of an artist whose influence was felt around the world.
Payne’s sudden and untimely death has sent waves of grief through his fan base and the entertainment industry at large. The announcement came as a painful surprise, leaving many grappling with the loss of someone who not only shaped pop music for over a decade but also touched the lives of many with his genuine personality and dedication to philanthropy. The plans for repatriating his body to his home country mark the beginning of a series of tributes and ceremonies expected to honor his life and career.
In the wake of the news, messages of sympathy and remembrance have poured in from all over the world. Liam Payne’s former bandmates—Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik—each expressed their deep sorrow and shared heartfelt tributes. “We shared some of the best years of our lives together,” one of them wrote. “Liam was more than a bandmate; he was a brother. His talent, kindness, and sense of humor will be missed every day.”
Fans, who have followed Payne’s journey from his audition on The X Factor to his global success with One Direction and beyond, have been expressing their grief online. Social media has been flooded with messages, artwork, and memories shared by millions. One fan tweeted, “Liam Payne was the voice of our teenage years. His music brought us so much joy, and his smile lit up the world. We are heartbroken.” The widespread outpouring of love highlights just how impactful Payne’s career was and how deep an impression he left on his followers.
Liam Payne’s contribution to music is undeniable. As a member of One Direction, he was part of a group that broke records, filled stadiums, and became one of the best-selling music acts of all time. Songs like “What Makes You Beautiful” and “Story of My Life” became anthems for a generation. Following the band’s hiatus, Payne embarked on a solo career, releasing hits such as “Strip That Down” and collaborating with other artists to explore different musical styles. His willingness to experiment and grow as an artist gained him respect in the music industry.
Payne’s life outside of music was equally notable. Known for his charitable efforts, he actively supported various causes, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for organizations focused on children’s welfare, mental health, and disaster relief. His commitment to giving back reflected his belief in making a positive difference, an aspect of his legacy that many are remembering fondly in this difficult time.
As arrangements are made to bring Liam Payne’s body back to the UK, his family has requested privacy while they navigate this period of mourning. In a brief statement, they expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received. “We are deeply touched by the kindness and love shown to us. Liam was cherished not just by us but by the world, and we are comforted to know that he will be remembered with so much affection,” the statement read.
The return of Liam Payne’s body to the UK will allow his loved ones and fans to pay their respects in a more personal way. Plans for a memorial service and public tribute are reportedly in discussion, as his family considers how best to celebrate his life and legacy. Many in the music industry have indicated that they would like to participate in these tributes, which are expected to be attended by high-profile figures from the world of entertainment and beyond.
For those who admired him, Liam Payne’s memory will be preserved not just in his music but in the way he inspired others with his resilience, humor, and generosity. As the world prepares to say goodbye to an artist who meant so much to so many, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate, echoing the love he shared through his songs and the positive impact he made.
Source: BBC
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