Buenos Aires, Argentina – Former One Direction member Liam Payne died suddenly on Wednesday at the age of 31, falling from a balcony in his hotel room. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to hotel staff, Payne was seen damaging his room before the incident. Police found the room in disarray, with broken items, medication, and various substances.
“The room was in total disorder,” said a police spokesperson. “We found a bottle of whiskey, a lighter, a passport, and a mobile phone, among other items.”
Police Investigators have collected evidence, including fingerprints, and seized Payne’s laptop and phone for analysis.
The prosecutor’s office has deemed the death suspicious, indicating that more needs to be established about what happened before Payne’s death and who he was in contact with.
A toxicology report is pending to determine if substances played a role in Payne’s death. Eyewitness accounts are also being reviewed.
Payne’s family will travel to Argentina to identify his body before it is released.
The sudden death of the popular singer has shocked fans and the music industry. One Direction rose to fame after finishing third on The X Factor in 2010.