Argentinian authorities are reportedly probing two hotel staff members over claims they provided Liam Payne with illicit substances in the days leading up to his tragic death. The pair allegedly smuggled drugs into the One Direction star’s suite at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Payne, 31, fell to his death from the third-floor balcony of his hotel room last week. According to reports, a cleaner and another staff member hid the substances in a Dove soap box, which was later discovered by police.
Tests are being conducted on the substances, which appeared to be cocaine and crack cocaine, along with other drug paraphernalia found in Payne’s suite. Hotel management had been informed of the suspicious behavior of the two staff members, reports the Mirror.
A close friend of Payne’s revealed: “There were two guys at the hotel that were giving Liam drugs. They sent taxis out to collect packages for him.”
They added: “One of the guys was working in the cleaning department. After Liam died, they noticed that one taxi was sent to the cleaner’s home address. The hotel manager asked him why the taxi had gone to his home and when he couldn’t give an explanation he was fired.”
They then added: “The cleaner and another member of staff have been interviewed by the police. Liam was doing everything to stay clean but as soon as he got to the hotel these people were offering him alcohol and drugs.”
Authorities from Argentina’s Ministry of Justice are reportedly demanding a comprehensive toxicological report before releasing the singer’s remains to his family in Britain. The initial autopsy indicates the star succumbed to extensive injuries sustained during his fall at the hotel
An outpouring of condolences from fans, colleagues, and past acquaintances began shortly after news of his passing broke, painting a picture of the loss felt within the music community.
Rebecca Ferguson, who competed alongside Liam on X Factor in 2010, lamented: “It’s always a hotel room! We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X Factor. I can’t help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead. If he hadn’t jumped on that train and jumped in that taxi I believe he would be alive today.”
She continued, expressing her sorrow: “Rest in peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love to your mum and family x.”
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