Former One Direction member Liam Payne’s death led to charges against five individuals, with allegations ranging from manslaughter to drug trafficking, according to Argentine judicial officials. Payne died after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires in October after police said he consumed “various substances,” including drugs and alcohol.
Toxicology reports revealed alcohol, cocaine and a prescription antidepressant in his system at the time of his death. Argentine prosecutors concluded his death was accidental, stating his intoxicated state caused him to mistake the balcony for an exit.
The charges included manslaughter against Payne’s representative, the hotel manager and the head receptionist. Prosecutors alleged these individuals failed in their duty to ensure Payne’s safety.
The representative, described as aware of Payne’s vulnerable state, reportedly left the hotel shortly before the incident.
Meanwhile, hotel staff allegedly facilitated Payne’s movement to a room with a balcony despite his intoxicated state. These defendants face up to five years in prison if convicted.
Two others, a hotel employee and a local waiter, face charges of supplying cocaine to Payne during his stay. They are being held in pre-trial detention and could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Payne addressed his struggles with substance abuse and mental health earlier in the year, marking six months of sobriety after undergoing treatment in the United States. In Argentina, days before his death, he attended a concert by his former bandmate Niall Horan.
