Five people have been formally charged in connection with the tragic death of One Direction star Liam Payne, who passed away on October 16 after falling from a third-floor balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Among the accused are the hotel manager, Gilda Martin, receptionist Esteban Grassi, Payne’s friend Roger Nores, hotel employee Ezequiel Pereyra, and waiter Braian Paiz. Charges range from manslaughter to drug supply, according to a statement from Argentina’s prosecutor’s office.

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The legal proceedings, overseen by Judge Laura Bruniard, have now advanced to the trial phase. Lawyers for the defendants can still appeal the decision.

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Ezequiel Pereyra (hotel employee) allegedly sold cocaine to Payne on October 15 and 16. Braian Paiz (waiter) allegedly sold cocaine to Payne twice on October 14. If convicted, both face sentences ranging from 4 to 15 years in prison.

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Roger Nores (friend) allegedly abandoned Payne despite knowing he was incapable of caring for himself due to his condition and multiple addictions. Gilda Martin (hotel manager) allegedly failed to intervene when Payne was escorted to his room, where the balcony posed a "serious threat" to his safety. Esteban Grassi (chief receptionist) allegedly directed others to "drag" Payne to his room instead of ensuring he was kept safe until medical help arrived. If found guilty, the three face 1 to 5 years in prison.

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Judge Bruniard acknowledged that while the accused did not "plan or intend" Payne's death, their actions created significant risks that ultimately led to the tragedy. The judge cited failures in duty of care and inadequate responses to Payne's condition as contributing factors.

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The case now moves into the trial phase, with evidence gathered by the prosecutor's office presented to a judge.

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