On the afternoon of October 16th, Buenos Aires police received a harrowing phone call from a distraught hotel desk manager. 911 operators had received word that a man in one of their rooms had been acting erratic, and they were concerned that he may be a risk to his own life.
As police arrived on scene, they found singer and former member of British boy band One Direction, Liam Payne, 31, had fallen from his third-floor hotel room’s balcony just moments before arriving.
As news broke worldwide, fans of the beloved boy band were heartbroken and confused as to what had happened. As Payne had just been posting to his snapchat story less than an hour before his passing was announced. Photos and speculation began circulating online overnight as fans attempted to uncover a semblance of truth.
But unfortunately, their hopes that this was just a grueling nightmare would be crushed after Payne’s family released a statement the morning of the 17th.
“We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time.” The family shared with PA Media, a national news agency in the U.K. and Ireland.
Following the family’s statement, many friends of the band began sharing their memories of what a kind soul Liam was with their fans, as the world mourns the death of one of the most iconic boy band’s founding members.
In a joint statement released by the band on their official One Direction instagram page, the band shared their joint sentiments and grief over the loss of one of their brothers.
Members Zayn, Louis Tomlinson, and Harry Styles all took to their personal Instagrams to share photos and personal memories of Liam over the past few days.
“I wish I got the chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.” said Tomlinson.
“I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly.” added Zayn.
“The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.” remarked Styles.
The loss of Liam Payne is an unexpected, unimaginable tragedy that can be felt in every facet of the music world. A band that touched and inspired millions of people across the globe. The legacy of Liam Payne and his brothers will be remembered for generations, and to say he will be missed is an understatement.
One Direction forever.
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