Liam Payne, former One Direction star, died at 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. Police are investigating the incident, which occurred shortly after he posted on social media about enjoying his time in Argentina. Fans gathered to mourn his passing, and tributes poured in from fellow artists. Payne was known for his work with One Direction and a successful solo career.

Liam Payne, the former member of One Direction, has tragically passed away at the age of 31 in Argentina following a fall from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, according to police reports.

Authorities revealed that they discovered Payne's body after emergency responders were dispatched to an incident in the upscale Palermo neighborhood on Wednesday. The police reported that they were initially responding to complaints of an "aggressive man" who might have been under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Upon arriving at the hotel, officers heard a loud noise from an interior courtyard, where they later found Payne's body. A police investigation has since been initiated.

Alberto Crescenti, the director of emergency medical services, informed local media that Payne sustained "serious injuries," and an autopsy will be conducted. However, he refrained from discussing the circumstances surrounding the fall.

Just hours before the incident, Payne had posted on Snapchat, expressing his enjoyment of a "lovely day here in Argentina." The UK Foreign Office confirmed it was in contact with Argentine authorities regarding the reports of a British citizen's death but did not disclose further details.

Following the announcement of his death, fans gathered outside the Buenos Aires hotel, prompting police to cordon off the area. Some fans lit candles in memory of the star. A young fan named Violeta Antier recounted her disbelief when she learned of his passing, stating, "We couldn't believe it. We came here directly to confirm it was true." Another woman, overcome with emotion, expressed her grief, saying, "This is the only way I have to say goodbye to him."

One Direction achieved monumental success with hits like "What Makes You Beautiful" and "Story of My Life." Payne also found success as a solo artist after the band announced their hiatus in 2015. His debut solo single, "Strip That Down," reached number three on the Official UK Chart, and his collaboration with Rita Ora on the song "For You" from the *Fifty Shades Freed* soundtrack also made it to the top 10.

Max George, a member of the boyband The Wanted, described Payne's death as "absolutely devastating." He shared on Instagram that he had the pleasure of getting to know Payne personally and cherished the time they spent together. George highlighted Payne's kindness and support during difficult times, especially when his bandmate Tom Parker battled a brain tumor. Payne attended Parker's funeral after his passing in 2022.

Olly Murs, who competed on *The X Factor* a year before One Direction, expressed his sorrow over Payne's untimely death. He reflected on their shared dreams and passions, stating that the loss hits hard, particularly for Payne's family and his young son, Bear.

Dermot O'Leary, a presenter who fondly recalled Payne's early days on *The X Factor*, shared a memory of Payne auditioning at 14, noting his talent and humble nature. He extended his condolences to Payne's family and loved ones.

Socialite Paris Hilton also paid tribute on X (formerly Twitter), expressing her grief and sending love to Payne's family, writing, "RIP my friend."

Born in Wolverhampton, UK, Payne first pursued stardom by auditioning for *The X Factor* in 2008, but was advised by judge Simon Cowell to return in two years. He made his comeback in 2010, impressing the judges and being placed with four other solo artists to form One Direction. The group achieved remarkable success, with four UK number one albums and singles, and topped charts globally. However, after Zayn Malik's departure in 2015, the band entered a hiatus.

In his personal life, Payne began dating Girls Aloud star Cheryl Tweedy in 2016, and the couple welcomed their son Bear the following year, although they split in 2018. Recently, Maya Henry, another former partner, had issued a cease and desist letter against Payne, alleging he repeatedly contacted her. Payne did not respond to these accusations.