Rogelio “Roger” Nores, a close friend of former One Direction member Liam Payne, asserts that Payne’s tragic death stemmed from a series of unfortunate events. Payne, aged 31, fell from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires in October, leading to a police investigation. Following the incident, five individuals were initially charged with various offences, including Nores, but his charges were later dismissed.
During an interview, Nores described spending time with Payne and his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, in Buenos Aires for a personal trip, which included attending a concert by former bandmate Niall Horan. He stated that when he last saw Payne, he appeared to be perfectly fine and expressed disbelief over the subsequent tragedy. According to Nores, Payne had been happy and engaged during their activities, which included bowling and watching movies, and had managed to stay sober throughout the trip.
Local authorities arrested a hotel employee and a waiter for allegedly providing cocaine to Payne. After investigating claims of negligent homicide against Nores and others, the charges were ultimately dropped. However, the detained waiter faces a significant potential prison sentence.
Prior to his death, an autopsy revealed that Payne had alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant in his system, prompting Nores to comment that he does not believe drugs directly caused Payne’s demise, labelling it as an overall accident. Nores emphasised that while Payne’s environment was supportive, the decisions ultimately rested with him.
Payne had been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse. Earlier in 2023, he celebrated six months of sobriety after completing a rehabilitation program. Despite his recent health challenges, including a kidney infection that led to the postponement of his South American tour, he had been actively involved in projects, including a judging role on the upcoming Netflix show “Building the Band.”
The news of Payne’s passing sent shockwaves through the music community and his fanbase, with many mourning the loss of a talented artist who had ascended to fame as a member of one of the UK’s most successful boybands formed on the X Factor in 2010. Following his death, a funeral service was held in England, attended by his bandmates and other loved ones.
Overall, Nores recalls Payne fondly as a cherished friend and reflects on the unfortunate circumstances surrounding his untimely passing. The investigation into the events leading up to Payne’s death continues, as the music world mourns a beloved star.