BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — An Argentine judge has formally charged five individuals in relation to the tragic death of Liam Payne, a former member of the famous musical group One Direction. Two of those charged have been placed in preventive detention for their alleged role in supplying drugs to the artist.
On Monday, a judicial officer confirmed the judge’s decision, noting that one of the two individuals ordered to preventive imprisonment was an employee at the hotel where Payne was staying prior to his death. The other individual is a waiter whom Payne reportedly encountered at a local restaurant. The officer, who preferred to remain anonymous while discussing the ruling, stated that both individuals are required to appear before the judge to face charges related to drug supply.
Additionally, three other individuals have been charged with manslaughter; these include a businessman who was present with Payne during his time in Argentina, as well as two hotel managers. However, it was confirmed that these additional individuals are not currently facing preventive detention.
In November, initial charges were brought by prosecutors against three individuals, although their identities were not disclosed. The incident occurred when Payne fell from the balcony of his hotel room on the third floor, situated in the upscale Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires. An autopsy indicated that he succumbed to multiple injuries and external bleeding.
Toxicology reports revealed that Payne’s system contained traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescribed antidepressant at the time of his death. The autopsy further clarified that his injuries were not the result of self-harm or external physical intervention. It was noted that he lacked the reflex to protect himself during the fall, suggesting he may have been unconscious at the time.
Prosecutors in Argentina have also dismissed the possibility that Payne’s death was a suicide. One Direction, known for being one of the most successful boy bands in recent history, announced an indefinite hiatus in 2016, and Payne, alongside former bandmates Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson, has since embarked on a solo music career.
