October 16 Tragedy: Investigation into Suspected Drug Supply and Negligence
Two men—a hotel employee and an alleged drug dealer—have been arrested in Buenos Aires in connection with the untimely death of former One Direction star Liam Payne. The singer tragically fell from his third-floor hotel balcony on October 16, and police suspect drug involvement at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel. The suspects, ages 21 and 24, are accused of supplying Payne with drugs prior to his death, while a third man faces allegations of abandoning him in his final hours.
Suspects Named in Liam Payne Investigation
Respected Argentine news outlet Infobae identified the 21-year-old suspect as an employee of CasaSur Palermo, reportedly supplying Payne with cocaine twice. The 24-year-old, from Berazategui, a suburb southeast of Buenos Aires, is alleged to have sold additional narcotics to Payne days before his passing.
Close Friend Denies Involvement
Payne’s close friend, Rogelio “Roger” Nores, refutes claims linking him to the investigation. In an exclusive statement to MailOnline, Nores insisted he did not abandon Payne and dismissed rumors of police raids on his Buenos Aires residence. He stated, “I never abandoned Liam. I visited him three times on the day of his death and left only 40 minutes before the tragedy.”
Prosecutors Rule Out Suicide, Confirm Drug and Alcohol Influence
Argentine prosecutors have ruled out suicide, citing Payne’s altered state of “semi or total unconsciousness” when he fell. Toxicology tests revealed high levels of alcohol, cocaine, and an antidepressant in his system. Authorities have requested the arrest of three suspects in connection with his death, officially charging them with abandonment leading to death, drug supply, and facilitation.
Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Initially eluding police, the suspects later surrendered and are now on bail with travel restrictions and required weekly court appearances. Although prosecutors have yet to confirm bail specifics, the investigation continues as authorities examine 800 hours of CCTV footage and extensive witness testimonies.
Ongoing Investigation into Payne’s Final Days
The Argentine prosecutor’s office has scrutinized Payne’s hotel records, personal mobile device, and extensive surveillance footage. While an autopsy confirmed the singer’s fatal injuries were consistent with a high fall, authorities have ruled out self-inflicted harm or third-party physical involvement.
The case, led by prosecutor Andrés Esteban Madrea, will determine if formal charges are to be filed against the suspects following further judicial review. Fans worldwide mourn Payne’s passing, with tributes pouring in from across the globe as the music world remembers a beloved artist gone too soon.
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