The official cause of Liam Payne’s death has been confirmed as "polytrauma," a term describing multiple traumatic injuries. The 31-year-old former One Direction member tragically fell from a hotel balcony in Argentina on October 16, 2024.
The findings were revealed during an inquest hearing held on December 17 at Buckinghamshire Coroner's Court. Senior Coroner Crispin Butler emphasized that understanding the exact circumstances surrounding Payne's death remains a complex process.
"While investigations in Argentina into the circumstances of Liam's death are ongoing—over which I have no legal jurisdiction—it is expected that obtaining the relevant details, particularly about how Liam came by his death, may take some time through formal channels via the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office," Butler stated.
Dr. Roberto Victor Cohen confirmed the medical cause of death during the hearing. However, the inquest in the U.K. has been adjourned until a pre-inquest review scheduled for November 6, 2025.
Legal Proceedings in Argentina
In late December, Argentina's National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office announced charges against five individuals in connection with Payne’s death.
The hotel’s manager, Gilda Martin, receptionist Esteban Grassi, and Payne’s friend, Roger Nores, have been charged with manslaughter. Additionally, hotel employee Ezequiel Pereyra and waiter Braian Paiz face charges related to the supply of cocaine.
A Somber Farewell
Liam Payne was laid to rest in November in Buckinghamshire, England, surrounded by loved ones. His former One Direction bandmates—Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson—attended the service to pay their respects to their late friend.
