Liam Payne, Former One Direction Member, Dead At 31

Former One Direction member Liam Payne has died after reportedly falling from a balcony in Argentina, multiple outlets confirmed on Wednesday.

The Associated Press reported that Payne was found after falling from the third floor balcony and into a courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires. Officials at the scene declined to comment regarding whether they believed the fall had been intentional or accidental in nature.

Local authorities also confirmed that there would be an autopsy and a full investigation into the circumstances of Payne’s death. He was in Argentina to watch his former bandmate, Niall Horan, perform.

Shortly after the news broke, tributes began to flood X for the late singer.

“We are extremely shocked and heartbroken to hear this news. Sending our love to his family, friends and fans around the world,” I Heart Radio posted.

BREAKING: Liam Payne has died at the age of 31 after reportedly falling from a balcony in Argentina. We are extremely shocked and heartbroken to hear this news. Sending our love to his family, friends and fans around the world. ???? pic.twitter.com/KQMzOvPbPW

— iHeartRadio (@iHeartRadio) October 16, 2024

“What an appalling tragedy and waste of life. Liam Payne was always the most mature member of One Direction in those heady early days. He was a joy to be around. The music industry is truly evil.
My thoughts to his poor family, band mates and fans who will be devastated,” Dan Wootton added.

What an appalling tragedy and waste of life.
Liam Payne was always the most mature member of One Direction in those heady early days.
He was a joy to be around.
The music industry is truly evil.
My thoughts to his poor family, band mates and fans who will be devastated. pic.twitter.com/eq4ilXBDZN

— Dan Wootton (@danwootton) October 16, 2024

“So upsetting to hear the news of Liam Payne passing,” Paris Hilton posted. “Sending love and condolences to his family and loved ones. RIP my friend.”

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

— Paris Hilton (@ParisHilton) October 16, 2024

Payne came forward in 2023 to discuss his struggle with addiction, releasing a YouTube video after spending just over three months at a Louisiana rehab facility. At the time, he announced that he’d been sober for six months.

After finishing rehab, he said that he had “more of a grip on life” and had planned to focus on being a better father to son Bear, whom he shares with singer Cheryl Cole.