The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print
operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a
leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and international interest.
Liam Payne, former member of the boy band One Direction, has died after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He was 31 years old.
Local authorities from El Sistema de Atención Médica de Emergencias (SAME) confirmed the news to Telemundo on October 16.
According to SAME, police received a 911 call earlier that day, reporting an "aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol." However, police did not confirm whether substances were involved.
Just hours before his death, Payne posted a photo on Snapchat with his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy. The two were seen smiling in swimwear, taking a mirror selfie.
Several artists expressed their shock and sadness on social media. Singer Charlie Puth shared his condolences on Instagram, saying, "I am in shock right now. Liam was always so kind to me. He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I can't believe he is gone." Puth also shared a video of them laughing together.
Music producer Zedd tweeted, “RIP Liam… I can’t believe this is real… absolutely heartbreaking.” Paris Hilton also mourned Payne, tweeting, "So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing. Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. RIP my friend."
Other artists, including Ty Dolla $ign and Juicy J, also expressed their sadness on social media, with Ty Dolla $ign saying he had spoken to Payne just two days before.
Payne first rose to fame in 2010 when he competed on The X-Factor. He was grouped with Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson to form One Direction.
- Dozens of cholera cases reported in flood-hit Kenya
- KEMRI founder Dr. Davy Koech dies at 73
- Lymphoma: Deadly cancer claiming lives of children in Africa
Keep Reading
Although they did not win the show, the band became one of the biggest boy bands in history. Payne co-wrote several of their hit songs, including Midnight Memories and Steal My Girl.
After the group went on hiatus in 2016, Payne launched his solo career. He found success with his 2017 single "Strip That Down" featuring Quavo, which has over a billion streams on Spotify. Payne released his debut album LP1 in 2019.
Liam Payne is survived by his 7-year-old son, Bear Grey, whom he shares with his ex-partner, Cheryl, a former member of Girls Aloud.
join