The tragic circumstances surrounding Liam Payne’s death have led police to storm the Casa Sur Palermo Hotel, where the former One Direction star fell from his third-floor balcony.
Authorities, acting on orders from prosecutor Andres Madrea, have been combing through documents and equipment in the hotel lobby, as they seek to identify the drug dealer who may have supplied substances to Payne prior to the incident.
Bodyguard Aids in the Search
Payne’s bodyguard, Paul Higgins, has stepped in to assist police with their investigation, reviewing security footage from the hotel alongside Payne’s father, Geoff.
Investigators are focusing on whether drugs played a role in the singer’s tragic fall.
Reports suggest that Payne may have been in a state of semi-consciousness during what prosecutors have described as a substance-induced psychotic episode.
Autopsy and Toxicology Reports
The initial findings from the autopsy indicate that Payne suffered multiple trauma injuries, including a skull fracture, resulting in both internal and external hemorrhaging.
Forensic experts have reportedly found traces of cocaine in his system, but further toxicology tests have yielded inconclusive results.
Speculation continues regarding the presence of other substances, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that a mix of designer narcotics, including “pink cocaine” and benzodiazepines, may have been involved.
Hotel Staff Under Scrutiny
The police operation has involved various units, including the Special Investigations Division and a Technology Investigations Unit.
Officers spent considerable time in the hotel’s reception area, but they also investigated the suite where Payne was staying.
It was reported that a member of the hotel staff has been suspended due to potential connections to the supply of drugs to Payne.
Call for Transparency
Geoff Payne has expressed a strong desire for transparency in the investigation, indicating his readiness to share everything he knows that could assist authorities.
He met with prosecutor Madrea, who informed him that the toxicology and histopathological tests related to the autopsy are not yet complete.
Until these tests are finalized, the family cannot return to the UK with Liam’s body.
Continuing the Investigation
As the investigation unfolds, officials have confirmed that they are still analyzing various materials, including mobile phones, computers, and CCTV footage.
Last week, investigators spoke with several hotel workers and acquaintances of Payne to piece together details of his final hours.
The singer was known to have spent time with Argentinian businessman Rogelio Nores, who has cooperated with the investigation.
Friends Remember Liam
In the wake of his tragic passing, Payne’s girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, has shared a heartfelt tribute online, describing him as her “best friend” and the “love of my life.”
Just days before his death, he had given her a note expressing his intentions to propose, which she now keeps close to her heart.
Their relationship, which began in October 2022, had seemed promising, and Cassidy spoke of struggling to navigate life without him.
The Road Ahead
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to unravel the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking incident.
As new information comes to light, Payne’s family has been assured they will be kept informed, as they navigate this painful chapter while remembering the vibrant life of Liam Payne.