Geoff Payne, devastated by the tragic loss of his son, has faced an agonizing wait in Buenos Aires.
After traveling to Argentina to identify Liam Payne, the former One Direction star who fell from a hotel balcony, Geoff has been warned it could take up to ten days for the authorities to grant him permission to bring his son’s body home.
At 66, this heart-wrenching journey has been particularly tough for him.
During his stay, Geoff visited the morgue to formally identify Liam’s remains and consulted with officials from the Argentine Ministry of Justice, who are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
He also made a trip to the boutique CasaSur Palermo Hotel, the site of the tragedy, where he expressed his gratitude to fans for their heartfelt tributes and vigils in memory of his son.
The autopsy revealed that Liam suffered multiple injuries consistent with a fall from approximately 45 feet, but the investigation remains open and inconclusive pending further toxicological tests.
Uncertainty and Investigation
As Geoff awaits answers, the lead investigator, Prosecutor Andrés Esteban Madrea, informed him that it might take up to ten days to receive the results from the lab.
This uncertainty has added to Geoff’s heartache.
A family friend shared, “Geoff is finding the whole situation really tough. He’s completely heartbroken over the loss of his son, but he has promised to do right by Liam and won’t leave without him.”
The family is grappling with the emotional strain of not knowing when they can bring Liam home.
Argentinian officials have indicated that while ten days is the expected timeframe for results, they may come back sooner.
Last night, Geoff met with Prosecutor Madrea, who updated him on the investigation’s progress and discussed the potential for keeping certain details private.
However, Geoff expressed his desire for transparency and offered to share anything about Liam’s life that might aid the investigation.
The Ongoing Investigation
The prosecutor explained that the toxicological and histopathological examinations of Liam’s remains are ongoing, and the body cannot be released until these tests are completed.
Additionally, forensic examinations are being conducted on mobile phones, computers, photographs, and security footage from the hotel.
Investigators are also questioning hotel staff, particularly amid claims that Liam, who had reportedly overcome substance abuse issues, may have been targeted by drug dealers at the hotel.
To ensure the safety of Geoff during this sensitive time, the prosecutor offered him police protection, given the high-profile nature of the case.
The Argentine Ministry of Justice has communicated that they will keep the Payne family informed of any developments, prioritizing their right to be the first to know before any public announcements.
High-Profile Case Under Investigation
Prosecutor Madrea, known for handling significant cases in Argentina, is committed to thoroughly investigating Liam’s death.
He has previously secured convictions in serious crimes, demonstrating his dedication to justice.
Meanwhile, investigators are still analyzing digital evidence, and witness statements are being taken from hotel staff and acquaintances to piece together Liam’s final hours.
Despite the trauma, the Payne family has been reassured that they will be the first to receive updates regarding the investigation.
Following reports of photos leaking from Liam’s hotel room, which showed a white powder now under analysis, prosecutors have classified his death as “inconclusive.”
While there is no current evidence of foul play, they have not ruled out the possibility that Liam may have fallen from the balcony while in a state of unconsciousness due to substance use.
A Disturbing Call for Help
The initial autopsy indicated that Liam died from multiple traumatic injuries, which resulted in severe internal and external bleeding.
Just before his death, hotel staff made emergency calls to 911, expressing concerns about Liam’s behavior, stating, “We have a guest who’s off his head on drugs and is destroying everything in his room. We need someone to come.”
As they sought urgent assistance, there was growing concern for Liam’s well-being, with staff fearing he might be in danger.
Police are currently investigating who may have supplied Liam with drugs before his death, including whether a hotel worker was involved.
Friends of the singer have claimed that he had been clean leading up to this tragic incident.
Reports suggest he entered Argentina on September 30, extending his stay due to visa issues.
His girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, returned to the U.S. shortly before the tragedy occurred.
Seeking Closure
As Geoff continues to navigate this harrowing ordeal, the family remains focused on seeking answers about Liam’s death.
With the investigation still ongoing, they hope for clarity and justice, striving to honor Liam’s memory and ensure that the circumstances of his passing are fully understood.
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