One Direction has spoken out following the tragic death of Liam Payne at 31. The remaining members — Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan — posted a heartfelt joint statement on Instagram, expressing their grief over "the loss of our brother."
"We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing," the message began. "In time, when we're ready, there will be more to say. For now, we need to take time to mourn and process the loss of our brother, who we loved deeply."
They went on to say, "The memories we shared with him will be cherished forever. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you, Liam."
Image Courtesy: People
In addition to the group statement, each member posted personal tributes. Tomlinson shared that he "would have loved to share the stage" with Payne again, Malik expressed being "beyond devastated," and Styles said his "heart breaks" for his "lovely friend."
One Direction, which included Styles, Malik, Tomlinson, Horan, and Payne, was formed by Simon Cowell and Nicole Scherzinger on ‘The X Factor UK’ during its seventh season. Though they didn’t win the competition, the band skyrocketed to fame, becoming one of the most successful boy bands of the early 2010s.
Since Payne's passing, fellow artists like Halsey, Cher Lloyd, and Rita Ora have also paid tribute to him.
Image Courtesy: People
Payne's death was confirmed on 16th October, after he fell several stories at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, according to Policía Federal Argentina. Local news outlet TN first reported the tragic event.
Alberto Crescenti, head of Buenos Aires' emergency medical services, stated that Payne fell into the hotel’s internal courtyard. A preliminary autopsy revealed he died from multiple injuries, including "internal and external" haemorrhages caused by the fall.
Payne is survived by his 7-year-old son, Bear Grey, whom he shares with his ex, Girls Aloud singer Cheryl.
–Farheen Ali
