Wat-Not Staff
A key suspect in the tragic death of former One Direction singer Liam Payne has spoken out, denying allegations of supplying narcotics. Payne, 31, was found dead on October 16 after a fall from a third-floor balcony at Buenos Aires’ CasaSur Palermo Hotel.
The investigation, led by local authorities, has resulted in charges against three individuals suspected of “abandonment leading to death” and “narcotics supply.”
Key Suspect Speaks Out, Denies Drug Involvement
In a recent interview with Argentina’s Telefe Noticias, Braian Nahuel Paiz, a 24-year-old waiter, denied accusations of supplying drugs to Payne. According to Paiz, he first met the singer at his workplace, a Puerto Madero restaurant, where Payne appeared “under the effects of drugs” but did not eat.
Paiz insists, “I never supplied Liam with drugs.” He stated that they met multiple times and even took drugs together but emphasized he “never took drugs to him or accepted any money.” Paiz also mentioned he still has messages with Payne organizing a meeting.
Investigators have cited the presence of drugs in Payne’s system, including “pink cocaine,” a mix of methamphetamine, ketamine, and MDMA, along with other substances. Authorities say Paiz and two other individuals remain under scrutiny as the investigation continues.
Evidence and Search Operations
Since Payne’s death, local law enforcement has conducted extensive searches, hoping to clarify the circumstances around his passing. Nine raids were approved by Judge Laura Graciela Bruniard, including the examination of hotel records, guest interactions, and over 800 hours of security footage.
The investigation has found evidence of “at least four instances of narcotics supply” during Payne’s stay at the hotel. Authorities have also reported Payne’s injuries were consistent with a fall from a significant height and may indicate he was in a semi-conscious state at the time.
A partial autopsy revealed Payne had various substances in his system, raising questions about his final hours and the individuals he interacted with before his death. Investigators also attempted to access Payne’s laptop and other devices to uncover more about the case.
Friends Deny Neglect Allegations
Another individual close to Payne, identified as his friend Rogelio “Roger” Nores, also denied any role in Payne’s death. In a recent statement, Nores expressed heartbreak and stated he visited Payne’s hotel three times on the day of his fall, leaving only 40 minutes before the incident.
“I never abandoned Liam,” Nores told the Daily Mail. “There were over 15 people in the lobby chatting with him when I left.”
As Payne’s family and friends await further details, this investigation continues, seeking to answer questions about his tragic passing.
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