This article was updated at 9:58 a.m.
According to the public prosecutor’s office, a “conscious act” by the singer can be ruled out; he was not fully conscious due to his drug consumption. When the 31-year-old fell from the balcony more than three weeks ago, he neither knew what he was doing nor understood the consequences of his actions because of his condition.
According to the prosecution, forensic examinations found traces of alcohol, cocaine and a prescription antidepressant in Payne’s body. There was no mention of any other substances.
Picture gallery: Fans mourn the death of “One Direction” star Liam Payne († 31)
(Photo: LUIS ROBAYO (AFP)) Bild 1/11
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3 men charged
The public prosecutor’s office said dozens of witnesses had been questioned in the past few weeks. More than 800 hours of video material from various security cameras were analyzed. The investigators searched through calls, messages and social networks on Payne’s cell phone. Orders from bars and restaurants were also examined to understand the musician’s eating and drinking habits.
According to the public prosecutor’s office, three men have now been charged in connection with Payne’s death. One of them is said to have been a friend and constant companion of Payne in Buenos Aires. He is accused of abandoning Payne in a helpless situation and thus becoming complicit. According to prosecutors, he could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
The second defendant is a hotel employee. He is accused of supplying Payne with cocaine in two cases. The public prosecutor’s office did not comment on the identity of the third defendant – according to media reports, he was a cleaner who worked in the hotel. It was said that the judge responsible informed the defendants about the allegations and banned them from leaving Argentina. According to the newspaper “Clarín”, the defendants remain at large for the time being.
Deep crisis
The ex-singer of the British boy band One Direction fell from a balcony on the third floor of the hotel on October 16th. According to previous information from prosecutors, Payne may have been going through a crisis over drug and alcohol use. The investigators had previously explained that the musician did not reflexively try to protect himself. It can therefore be assumed that he was partially or completely unconscious when he fell.
The singer’s body was handed over to Payne’s father last weekend with the approval of the judiciary, as the public prosecutor’s office has now announced. She has since been transferred to London, according to the Argentine newspaper Clarin.
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**Interview with Music Industry Expert: Insights on the Liam Payne Investigation**
**Editor:** Good morning, everyone. Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Mark Thompson, a music industry analyst and mental health advocate, to discuss the recent tragic events surrounding singer Liam Payne. Mark, thank you for joining us.
**Mark Thompson:** Thanks for having me.
**Editor:** Liam Payne’s recent passing has shocked many fans worldwide. Can you share your thoughts on the circumstances surrounding his death as described by the prosecutor’s office?
**Mark Thompson:** It’s indeed heartbreaking. The investigation indicates that Liam was under the influence of multiple substances, which raises significant concerns regarding his mental and physical health at that time. Forensic findings show traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant. This paints a picture of someone struggling deeply with substance use, possibly as a coping mechanism for underlying issues.
**Editor:** The prosecutors have ruled out a “conscious act” in his fall due to his state at the time. Do you think this reflects a broader issue in the music industry?
**Mark Thompson:** Absolutely. The pressure on artists is immense, often leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Many in the industry face significant mental health challenges, and the prevalence of substance abuse can be a troubling response to that stress. Liam’s case is a tragic reminder of the vulnerabilities that many artists face, particularly in such a high-pressure environment.
**Editor:** Three men have been charged in connection to Payne’s death, one for allegedly abandoning him and others for supplying substances. What does this say about the responsibility of those around public figures?
**Mark Thompson:** It illustrates a critical aspect of accountability. Those who surround public figures, especially friends and associates, have a moral obligation to support them, particularly in vulnerable moments. The allegations suggest that, instead of providing help, these individuals may have contributed to a dangerous environment. This can be a wake-up call for the industry regarding how it manages and supports its artists.
**Editor:** Given the intense scrutiny and media attention, what can be done to foster healthier environments for artists?
**Mark Thompson:** There’s a lot that could be done. First, promoting mental health resources is essential. The industry needs to prioritize well-being over productivity. Also, creating supportive networks among artists and between management and artists can help. We need more open discussions around mental health and addiction, removing the stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mark, for your thoughtful insights on this tragic situation. It’s essential that we continue discussing mental health in the industry to prevent further tragedies.
**Mark Thompson:** Thank you. It’s a conversation we need to keep having.
