Liam Payne's funeral update as family plans repatriation

The funeral of musician Liam Payne is expected to take place next month, according to reports.

The singer and father of one tragically passed away at the age of 31 after falling from the third-floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires on Wednesday October 16th.

The singer, who was one fifth of the biggest boyband in recent years, was travelling in the region with his partner Kate Cassidy, who had left to return to the USA in the days prior to his death.

Read more: Liam Payne's final message on social media show how One Direction star spent days before death

Read more: Liam Payne's girlfriend Kate Cassidy breaks silence on his death: 'My angel, you are my everything'

Liam's father Geoff Payne has flown to South America to identify his son's body and oversee its return to the UK.

Authorities say that Liam's body might remain in Argentina for 10 to 15 days pending toxicological test results, reports The Mirror.

His remains will be released to the family for repatriation after local authorities complete their investigation.

The funeral may take place next month following this timeline.

According to Argentinian newspaper Clarín, sources from the British Embassy said: "We are supporting Liam Payne's family and are in contact with local authorities."

Liam's family released a statement after his passing, saying: "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."

Liam's One Direction bandmates expressed: "We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say."

"But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly."

"The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam."

Liam's former partner Cheryl Tweedy, with whom Liam shares son Bear, said: "As I try to navigate this earth shattering event, and work through my own grief at this indescribably painful time, I'd like to kindly remind everyone that we have lost a human being."

"Liam was not only a pop star and celebrity, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, a dear friend and a father to our 7 year old son. A son that now has to face the reality of never seeing his father again."

"What is troubling my spirit the most is that one day Bear will have access to the abhorrent reports and media exploitation we have seen in the past two days. It is breaking my heart further that I cannot protect him from that in his future.

"I am begging you to consider what use some of these reports are serving, other than to cause further harm to everyone left behind picking up the pieces. Before you leave comments or make videos, ask yourself if you would like your own child or family to read them.

"Please give Liam the little dignity he has left in the wake of his death to rest in some peace at last.

"Thank you,

"Cheryl."

Cheryl, who was a judge on The X Factor when Liam competed in 2010, welcomed Bear with the singer while they were in a relationship. They split in 2018, but continued to co-parent their son.

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