In a significant development in the investigation into the death of former One Direction singer Liam Payne, an Argentine court has dropped criminal negligence charges against three individuals previously implicated in the case. The court’s decision clears Payne’s friend, Rogelio Nores, along with CasaSur Palermo Hotel manager Gilda Martin and chief receptionist Esteban Grassi, of any wrongdoing related to Payne’s tragic fall from a third-floor balcony in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024 .
The court’s ruling emphasized that there was insufficient evidence to prove that Nores, Martin, or Grassi’s actions directly contributed to Payne’s death. Prosecutors had argued that Nores failed in his duty of care by leaving Payne alone while he was intoxicated. However, the court found no legal basis for this duty, noting that Nores was not present at the hotel at the time of the incident. Similarly, the decision to escort Payne to his room, rather than keep him in the lobby, was not deemed negligent by the court .
Despite the dropped charges against these three individuals, the investigation continues for two others. Ezequiel David Pereyra, a former hotel employee, and Braian Paiz, a waiter from a local restaurant, remain in custody on charges of supplying narcotics to Payne in the days leading up to his death. If convicted, they could face sentences ranging from four to fifteen years in prison .
Payne’s family has expressed deep grief over the loss and acknowledged the necessity of the investigation. However, they have also criticized the intense media scrutiny, stating that it has caused immense distress, particularly to Payne’s young son. The family has requested privacy as they continue to grieve and has expressed appreciation for the tributes paid to Payne, including one at the 2025 BRIT Awards .
The court’s decision to drop charges against Nores, Martin, and Grassi marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation. While the legal proceedings continue for the remaining individuals, the focus now shifts to understanding the circumstances that led to Payne’s untimely death and ensuring that justice is served for all parties involved.