Former One Direction bandmates leave touching tributes on their social media in the wake of Liam Payne’s passing.

Payne died of multiple traumas and internal bleeding after plunging from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires on Wednesday, October 16.

On Thursday, Prosecutors added an initial search suggested the fall came after substance abuse. The police investigation into the circumstances of his death is still ongoing, according to police in Buenos Aires.

One Direction, composed of Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik, skyrocketed to global stardom after their formation on The X Factor in 2010 and were active up until 2016.

Styles’ ‘Lovely Friend’

Tomlinson Reflects on Payne’s Legacy

Tomlinson, 32, fondly remembered Liam Payne as “the most vital part of One Direction” and expressed his desire to share stories of Payne’s greatness with his young son, Bear.

“I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother,” Tomlinson said, recalling Payne as someone he admired daily. “Liam was a positive, funny, and kind soul.”

Tomlinson reflected on their first meeting, when Payne’s voice “instantly amazed” him, and described Payne as the brother he had longed for throughout his life. “Liam was an incredible songwriter with a great sense of melody,” Tomlinson added, explaining how they often talked about returning to the studio to recapture their writing chemistry.

Malik Shares Heartfelt Memories

Zayn Malik, 31, also shared an emotional tribute to Payne, writing that he had been talking to his late friend out loud, “hoping you can hear me.” Malik thanked Payne for supporting him during difficult moments, especially when they were younger.

“You were always more sensible than me, headstrong, and opinionated,” Malik wrote, noting how they clashed at times, but he secretly respected Payne for his honesty and strength.

Just weeks before his passing, Payne was seen enjoying himself at a concert in Argentina, supporting fellow One Direction member Niall Horan. He shared moments from the event, posting videos on Snapchat of him dancing and singing along to the music.

Niall, who was the last member to see Payne alive, has yet to release a personal statement.

Since Payne’s death, a tornado of grief and heartfelt tributes has poured in from fans worldwide, honouring his memory and celebrating his legacy as a beloved musician and friend.