Liam Payne, the former One Direction singer, tragically fell to his death from the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024. The shocking incident has led to criminal charges against five men, including allegations of manslaughter and drug dealing.

The case has drawn significant attention due to Payne’s global fame and the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. Investigations by the authorities have uncovered details about the events leading up to the tragedy, resulting in serious accusations against those involved.

Charges Filed Against Five Suspects

Three men have been charged with manslaughter, while two others face accusations of selling illegal drugs to Payne. The charges were announced by Laura Bruniard, the investigating judge, who made her decision after questioning the suspects just before Christmas.

The three men facing manslaughter charges include:

Roger Nores – A businessman and friend of Payne.

Esteban Grassi – The hotel’s chief receptionist.

Gilda Martin – The hotel’s head of security.

The judge has imposed a travel ban on these three men and ordered them to deposit the equivalent of £38,000 in Argentine pesos as a guarantee. Although they have been charged, they will not be held in custody before the trial.

The other two suspects, identified as:

Braian Nahuel Paiz – A 24-year-old waiter.

Ezequiel David Pereyra – A 21-year-old hotel employee who has been suspended from his job.

They have been accused of selling drugs to Payne on multiple occasions. Both men have been given 24 hours to return to court, where they are expected to be informed about further proceedings, including potential jail time.

Details About the Investigation

The court’s decision to file charges is based on WhatsApp messages exchanged between Payne and Mr. Paiz. These messages allegedly suggest that drugs, including cocaine, were supplied to Payne on October 14 and 15—just days before his death.

Mr. Paiz’s lawyer, Fernando Madeo, has strongly denied the allegations. He described the court’s decision as unfair and baseless. According to him, Paiz admitted to meeting Payne twice and consuming drugs in a private setting, but denied selling any substances.

Meanwhile, Mr. Pereyra, the second man accused of drug dealing, has not yet responded to the allegations either personally or through a lawyer.

Manslaughter Charges Against Hotel Staff

The charges of manslaughter against Mr. Nores, Mr. Grassi, and Ms. Martin are linked to their actions before Payne’s fatal fall. According to reports, they were seen carrying Payne back to his hotel room shortly before the incident.

Mr. Grassi, the hotel’s chief receptionist, reportedly made a 911 call just moments before Payne’s fall. However, he has not commented publicly on the case. Investigators have also reviewed leaked text messages indicating that Payne asked a bellboy for drugs shortly after checking into the hotel.

The messages further reveal that Payne repeatedly contacted the hotel reception, especially during late-night hours, asking for alcohol and information about buying cocaine.

Statements From the Accused

Mr. Nores, one of Payne’s close friends, has denied any wrongdoing. He claimed that Payne was in a calm and happy mood on the day of his death and denied suggestions that he was acting strangely or was intoxicated.

In an earlier interview, Mr. Nores stated that he had visited Payne’s hotel room three times on the day of the incident. He left the hotel about 40 minutes before Payne’s fall. He emphasized that Payne was surrounded by other people at the time and appeared to be in good spirits.

“I could never have imagined something like this happening,” he said.

Nores has also rejected claims that he was acting as Payne’s manager, describing their relationship as a close friendship.

The Night Before the Tragedy

Witnesses have described Payne’s behavior in the hours leading up to his fall. Some hotel staff claimed he seemed distressed and had been making frequent requests for alcohol and drugs. Security footage reportedly shows Payne being escorted to his room earlier that evening.

The judge’s decision to charge the suspects suggests that authorities believe their actions—or lack of action—may have contributed to the tragic incident.

Legal Challenges and Next Steps

Lawyers representing the accused men have already criticized the judge’s ruling and are expected to file appeals. Mr. Paiz’s legal team has vowed to fight the charges, arguing that the evidence presented is incomplete and does not prove guilt.

Meanwhile, the hotel staff accused of manslaughter may face additional legal challenges, including questions about security measures and protocols at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel.

Impact on Fans and Family

Liam Payne’s sudden death has left fans around the world in shock and mourning. Many have shared messages of love and support for his family, remembering him not only as a talented musician but also as someone who inspired millions.

His family has asked for privacy as they deal with this tragedy. They have also expressed hope that the investigation will uncover the truth and deliver justice for Liam.

The case surrounding Liam Payne’s death continues to raise serious questions about the events leading up to the tragedy. Did the hotel staff fail to protect him? Were drugs a factor in his fall? Could this incident have been prevented?

While investigations are ongoing, the charges filed against the five men mark a significant step in the legal process. The focus now shifts to the court proceedings, where more details about what truly happened that night are likely to emerge.

Payne’s fans, friends, and family are left waiting for answers, hoping for justice and closure in this heartbreaking case.