Liam Payne tributes: Shocked fans in Kent 'still can't believe he's gone' after star's tragic death
Shocked fans in Kent have paid tribute to former One Direction star Liam Payne following his tragic death in Argentina. The 31-year-old died after falling from the third floor of his hotel in Buenos Aires last night (October 16).
Following an autopsy performed by the Forensic Medical Corps at the Judicial Morgue on Viamonte Street, it was revealed the dad-of-one died from “multiple traumas” that caused “internal and external bleeding”.
Reports said the preliminary result is consistent with a ten-metre fall he suffered from the balcony of his room, located on the third floor of the Casa Sur hotel on Godoy Cruz Street. Last night, personnel from the Mobile Criminalistics Unit of the City Police of Buenos Aires collected forensic evidence in the room at Casa Sur hotel. At the scene, police experts found a bottle of whiskey, a lighter, and a phone that could belong to Payne, which may be examined for messages.
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'I can't believe he's gone'
Following the news, fans said they "still can’t believe he is gone". Rebecca Jade Osborne, 29, from Rochester told KentLive: “I followed him from when he came on the X Factor and didn’t make it the first time.
“He had a lovely voice even at 14, then he came on the X Factor again and wowed the judges. He was an amazing singer. I still can’t believe he is gone. I loved all of his songs he did on his own and with One Direction.
“It hurt my heart. I found out while at work. My colleague came rushing in to tell me; it shocked me.
“It's just so sad. A young precious soul is no longer with us. Condolences are with his friends and family. I'm sure all of us were all shocked by this sad news.”
'A part of my childhood has been closed forever'
Fan Kate James, from Rainham, said Liam's death felt like a part of her "childhood has been closed forever". The 26-year-old said: “One Direction was a huge part of many young people growing up in the 2010s. It’s always a tragedy to lose someone young, but when it’s someone who was part of such an iconic boy band like One Direction, it hits you in a different way.”
Many celebrities and friends of Liam have also paid tributes on social media including singer Rita Ora. She said: “I’m devastated. He had the kindest soul, I will never forget. I loved working with him so much - he was just such a joy to be around on and off stage.
"This tragic news breaks my heart. Sending all my love and prayers to his family and loved ones. Our song For You takes on a whole new meaning for me now. R.I.P”
The One Direction star's family has released a statement through his spokeswoman, saying they are "heartbroken". Liam will forever live in our hearts and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul," they said.
"We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."
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