Liam Payne's 'heartbroken' family pay tribute to One Direction star after tragic death

The former One Direction star has been described as 'kind' and 'funny' by his loved ones

The "heartbroken" family of former One Direction star Liam Payne have issued a statement following his tragic death caused by a fall. The 'Strip That Down' singer was holidaying in Buenos Aires, Argentina, having shared images and videos of his travels shortly before the incident.

In mourning, his family has issued a statement this afternoon (Thursday, October 17). It reads: "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 tragically lost his life after falling from the third floor of a hotel. Following the fall, police, firefighters, and emergency services were dispatched to the hotel, reports the Mirror.

A body was discovered in the internal courtyard of a hotel, prompting the hotel manager to alert the police. It's believed that Liam fell from a height of approximately 13 or 14 metres, sustaining "very serious injuries incompatible with life."

Fans had gathered outside of the swanky hotel in the minutes following Liam's death, with many lighting candle tributes for the late star. Other stars and fans also paid tribute to the late singer, including socialite Paris Hilton who described the news as "so upsetting" while sending "love and condolences" to his friends and family. She tweeted: "So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing. Sending love and condolences to his family and loved ones. RIP my friend."

Following Liam's passing, Lou Teasdale, former hairstylist for One Direction, expressed her condolences on Instagram Stories, saying: "I hope you're all ok" accompanied by a heart and broken heart emoji. Jedward, the Irish singing and TV presenting duo, also paid tribute on X/Twitter, stating: "RIP Liam Payne. condolences to friends and family."

They added: "Sending strength to Cheryl and his son Bear and all the One direction Family."

Rylan Clark, former X Factor contestant and TV presenter, described Liam's death as "tragic" and wrote: "Extremely sad news. V tragic and so young. RIP Liam."

Dermot O'Leary, This Morning presenter, shared a photo of himself and Liam on stage, recalling Liam's X Factor audition as a teenager: "The worst news. I remember him as a 14 year old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing. He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble. Sending love and prayers to his family. Dx".