In Pics: Liam Payne Memorial Outside Buenos Aires Hotel Sees Grief-Stricken Fans, Forensic Experts

The death of Liam Payne, who shot to stardom as a member of British boy band One Direction sent shockwaves across the world Thursday as Argentine investigators continued their investigation at the scene. Fans, music-industry figures and fellow musicians paid tribute to Payne, 31, who died after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina. 

Scenes outside the hotel where Liam Payne died after falling from a balcony

Fans and media bombarded the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighborhood of Argentina’s capital, the forensics unit worked inside on Thursday to collect evidence. Police said they had rushed to the hotel in response to an emergency call just after 5 pm local time on Wednesday that had warned of an “aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol”. A 911 call has also surfaced where a hotel manager told first responders that “a guest who is overwhelmed with drugs and alcohol ... He’s destroying the entire room and, well, we need you to send someone, please.”

Meanwhile, fans erected a makeshift memorial outside the hotel and lit candles fondly remembering the former One Direction star and praying for the departed soul. Most of them were young kids who appeared somber and overcome with grief. Police cordoned the perimeter of the Casa Sur Hotel as curious onlookers tried to get a glimpse of what was going down.

Alleged photo of Liam's last spotting go viral

A photograph of Liam Payne seemingly returning to his hotel room is reportedly the final image of the singer before he fell to his death. The alleged final photograph of Payne at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires seems to show the former One Direction singer wearing a white sleeveless top with his tattoos visible. He appeared to be waiting in the hotel lobby near the elevator.

Staff claimed that he was behaving ‘erratically’ before his tragic death. In a conversation with an international publication, Payne's family said of his death, "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time,” they added.