Liam Payne, former member of the iconic boy band One Direction, tragically passed away on October 16, 2024, after falling from a third-floor balcony at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The Buckinghamshire Coroner’s Court has now confirmed the cause of death as “polytrauma,” a medical term used to describe multiple traumatic injuries sustained by a person.

Details of Liam Payne’s Death
The coroner’s hearing, held on December 17, 2024, revealed that it may take some time to fully determine the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death. Polytrauma is characterized by injuries affecting multiple body parts or organ systems, which was confirmed by Dr. Roberto Victor Cohen as the cause of Payne’s tragic passing. Payne, 31, fell from the balcony of his hotel room, which led to severe injuries.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
In connection with his death, five individuals have been charged in Argentina. These include the hotel manager, a receptionist, and a friend of Payne’s, Roger Nores, who have been charged with manslaughter. Additionally, hotel employee Ezequiel Pereyra and waiter Braian Paiz face charges for supplying cocaine to Payne.

The investigation is ongoing, with the court in Argentina conducting a thorough review of the events leading to Payne’s fall. In the UK, the inquest was adjourned until a pre-inquest review scheduled for November 6, 2025. The court clarified that, although it is investigating the death, it has no jurisdiction over the ongoing investigations in Argentina.
The Events Leading Up to Payne’s Death
Court documents suggest that the hotel’s chief receptionist is suspected of manslaughter after allegedly instructing three individuals to “drag” Payne to his hotel room, despite his condition. It is reported that the balcony was considered a “serious threat,” and it was suggested that hotel management should have ensured Payne’s safety until medical assistance arrived.
Roger Nores has been charged with manslaughter for reportedly abandoning Payne, knowing that the singer had struggled with addiction issues and was unable to care for himself. While Judge Laura Bruniard did not believe that the charges were related to intentional harm, she stated that the defendants’ actions put Payne’s life at significant risk.
Toxicology Report and Substance Use
A toxicology report, released in November 2024, revealed that when Payne passed away, his system contained a dangerous mixture of cocaine, alcohol, and anti-depressants. This combination likely contributed to his inability to function properly and could have played a role in the tragic fall.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Reactions
As Payne’s family and friends continue to grieve, many are questioning the circumstances surrounding his death. With legal proceedings underway and the investigation still open, more details about what happened on the night of Payne’s death are expected to emerge in the coming months.
Liam Payne’s death has left fans and the public in shock, with many hoping that justice will be served for the singer and that the individuals responsible for his tragic passing will be held accountable.