Liam Payne’s Family Releases Statement Following Dismissal of Manslaughter Charges

Share:

Liam Payne’s family has spoken out following the recent dismissal of manslaughter charges against three individuals linked to the tragic death of the former One Direction member. In an emotion   al statement, they expressed their grief, acknowledged the legal process, and addressed the media scrutiny that has significantly affected their lives, particularly that of Payne’s young son.

The Case and Dismissal of Charges

Payne passed away on October 16, 2024, after falling from a balcony at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He was 31 years old. Three individuals—his friend Roger Nores and hotel staff members Gilda Martin and Esteban Grassi—were initially charged with manslaughter in connection to his death. However, on February 19, 2025, the Court of Appeal in Argentina dropped all charges, citing insufficient evidence to hold them responsible.

Despite the dismissal of these charges, two other individuals, Ezequiel Pereyra and Braian Paiz, remain in custody. They are accused of supplying Payne with drugs and could face prison sentences ranging from four to 14 years if convicted.

The Family’s Statement

Payne’s family released an official statement addressing their immense loss and their stance on the case’s legal proceedings:

“Liam’s death was an unspeakable tragedy. This is a time of tremendous grief and pain for those who knew and loved him. Liam ought to have had a long life ahead of him. Instead, Bear has lost his father, Geoff and Karen have lost their son, Ruth and Nicola have lost their brother, and all of Liam’s friends and fans have lost someone they held very dear.”

Acknowledging the legal process, the family stated:

“We understand that the investigation into Liam’s death was absolutely necessary, and the family recognizes the work done by the Argentinian authorities. However, the family accepts the Court of Appeal’s decision to drop all charges.”

They also called attention to the impact of the media coverage surrounding Payne’s death, particularly on his 7-year-old son, Bear:

“The constant media attention and speculation which has accompanied the process has exacted indescribable, lasting damage on the family, particularly on Liam’s son who is trying to process emotions which no seven-year-old should have to experience.”

Requesting privacy, the family added:

“The family has always wished for privacy to grieve and asks that they be given the space and time to do so.”

Honoring Liam’s Legacy

Amid the legal proceedings and personal grief, the family took a moment to recognize the lasting impact of Liam Payne’s career and the love he received from fans around the world.

“This weekend, at the Brit Awards, Liam was remembered for his phenomenal contribution to British music and for his wider, positive impact on millions of adoring fans the world over. We joined in that celebration of his life and will forever remember the joy that his music brought to the world. Liam, you are so loved and missed.”

Moving Forward

The dismissal of the charges closes one chapter of the legal process, but the family continues to mourn Payne’s loss while dealing with the emotional strain of public scrutiny. The case against Pereyra and Paiz is still ongoing, and the family remains focused on preserving Payne’s legacy while seeking the privacy they need to heal.

As the world remembers Liam Payne for his talent, kindness, and contributions to music, his family’s message remains clear: love, respect, and privacy are paramount as they navigate this difficult time.