The shocking death of One Direction’s star in October 2023 sent ripples through the music world, leaving fans and loved ones grappling with unanswered questions. Now, months after the tragic incident, an Argentine appeals court has dropped death charges against one of Liam Payne’s close friends and two hotel employees. However, the legal saga surrounding the singer’s untimely demise is far from over. Please continue reading to find out what the judges decided and who still faces charges!
The Tragic Incident
Payne, 31, died after falling from a balcony at the luxurious CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires. Toxicology reports revealed traces of alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in his system in the days leading up to the incident. While authorities ruled out suicide, they believe Payne may have been in a state of partial or full unconsciousness when he fell, leading to his fatal injuries.
What Did the Judges Decide?
The case took a dramatic turn in December when his close friend Rogelio “Roger” Nores, along with hotel security head Gilda Martin and receptionist Esteban Grassi, were charged with negligent homicide. Prosecutors alleged that Nores, who had been with Payne daily during his two-week stay in Argentina, failed in his duty of care toward the singer. However, on Wednesday, a panel of three appeals court judges overturned the charges, stating that Nores could not have prevented Payne’s death, even if he had remained by his side at all times.
“It cannot be ruled out that, even if he had taken those extreme precautions… [Payne] would have managed to obtain the substances anyway, as is common among addicts, even when they are under the loving care of their family,” the judges wrote in their ruling, as reported by Rolling Stone.
Nores, who had been barred from leaving Argentina during the investigation, expressed relief at the decision. “Glad this is finally over. I’m happy I’m now going to be able to travel to the UK and say goodbye to my friend,” he told the publication. His lawyer, Rafael Cuneo Libarona, emphasized that Nores was merely a friend and had no legal obligation to ensure Payne’s safety.
Who Still Faces Charges?
While Nores, Martin, and Grassi are now free from criminal charges, two other men—hotel waiter Braian Nahuel Paiz and suspended employee Ezequiel David Pereyra—remain in custody. They are accused of supplying Payne with cocaine in the days leading up to his death and could face prison sentences of up to 15 years if convicted.
The case has also sparked a legal battle between Nores and Payne’s father, Geoff Payne. Nores has filed a $10 million defamation lawsuit in Florida, claiming that Geoff made false statements to Argentine authorities, portraying him as part of a “care group” responsible for Liam. Nores denies this role, insisting he was simply a friend.
While the dropped charges bring some closure, the circumstances surrounding Liam Payne’s death remain a poignant reminder of the struggles he faced behind the spotlight.
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