Argentinian law enforcement officials have apprehended three individuals in connection with the demise of British pop star Liam Payne. The charges against the suspects are linked to the provision of cocaine to the One Direction member and their subsequent desertion of him prior to his fatal plunge from a third-floor hotel in Buenos Aires.
The first individual taken into custody is a close acquaintance of Payne, who, according to prosecutors, was with the singer throughout his stay in Buenos Aires but deserted him before the tragic incident. This individual is also accused of providing Payne with cocaine. If found guilty, the suspect could face a prison sentence ranging from five to 15 years.
The second suspect is an employee of the Casa Sur Palermo Hotel, who allegedly provided Payne with narcotics on two separate occasions. The third suspect is identified as a drug dealer by the prosecutors. Both these individuals are facing two counts each of drug supply charges.
Following the heartbreaking incident on October 16, a thorough and detailed investigation was launched, leaving Payne’s millions of fans in shock. The authorities interviewed numerous individuals, including hotel staff, family members, medical professionals, and experts. They also reviewed approximately 800 hours of surveillance footage. Payne’s phone was also scrutinized, with investigators analyzing his calls, messages, and social media activity. Police also examined guest records and food and drink receipts, and conducted nine raids.
Medical examiners and experts also investigated the circumstances of Payne’s fall. Toxicology reports revealed that Payne had minimal amounts of alcohol, cocaine, and prescription antidepressants in his system at the time of his death. Experts concluded that Payne was either unconscious or nearly unconscious when he fell, as he made no attempt to brace himself upon impact. His injuries were consistent with a fall from such a height, according to authorities. They dismissed the possibilities of suicide or foul play.
A comprehensive 180-page report was compiled by the authorities and presented to a judge last Friday, leading to the issuance of arrest warrants on Thursday. There were rumors of Payne behaving erratically in the hotel lobby prior to his death, and images of a table laden with drugs in his hotel room were circulated on social media.
Earlier this week, Payne’s body was released to his family and transported back to his native England.