Rogelio “Roger” Nores, a 35-year-old businessman and close friend of the late singer Liam Payne, is facing legal repercussions in Argentina following Payne’s tragic death in October 2024. Nores has been charged with negligent homicide, the Spanish equivalent of manslaughter, and is reportedly under a travel ban with a significant portion of his assets seized. The charges stem from Payne’s fatal fall from a balcony at the CasaSur Palermo hotel in Buenos Aires. Nores, who was with Payne on the day of his death, maintains his innocence and insists he left the hotel approximately an hour before the incident.
Nores and Payne’s relationship extended beyond friendship, with Nores reportedly involved in Payne’s career, though he denies acting as his manager. Their connection began in 2020, and Nores subsequently supported Payne through struggles with addiction. Nores’ account of the day contradicts some witness statements claiming Payne exhibited erratic behavior, requiring assistance back to his room. Nores asserts that Payne was in good spirits and interacting with others when he departed. However, earlier reports suggested Nores was accused of abandoning Payne before the tragedy, a charge that carries a potential 15-year prison sentence under Argentinian law.
The investigation into Payne’s death has widened to include four other individuals, including two former hotel employees, Braian Paiz and Ezequiel Pereyra. These individuals are facing charges related to supplying narcotics, with allegations they provided drugs to Payne on two occasions shortly before his death. Both Paiz and Pereyra are currently in custody awaiting trial. The prosecution’s case reportedly includes Paiz’s admission of drug use with Payne. The maximum penalty for drug supply charges in Argentina is also 15 years imprisonment. This complex legal landscape adds another layer to the tragic circumstances surrounding Payne’s untimely demise.
Liam Payne’s death has sent shockwaves through the music world, especially among his former One Direction bandmates. Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, and Niall Horan each released heartfelt tributes, expressing their grief and highlighting Payne’s infectious energy, talent, and kindness. They emphasized the profound impact he had on their lives, both personally and professionally. The shared statement from the band underscored the devastation they felt and the irreplaceable bond they shared with Payne. The loss of Payne resonated deeply with fans globally who mourned the passing of a beloved artist.
The circumstances of Liam Payne’s death have been under intense scrutiny, with toxicology reports revealing traces of alcohol, cocaine, and prescribed antidepressants in his system. The official police report indicated that Payne sustained catastrophic injuries and did not exhibit protective reflexes during his fall, suggesting a possible state of unconsciousness. This supports earlier statements from officials who believed Payne was likely unaware of his actions in the moments preceding the fatal plunge. The investigation continues to unravel the events of that day, seeking to determine the sequence of events and the contributing factors leading to Payne’s tragic demise.
Adding to the complexities surrounding the case are reports indicating tension between Nores and Payne’s family. Sources suggest Nores was not welcome at Payne’s funeral, reflecting strained relationships within Payne’s wider circle. The ongoing investigation and differing accounts of Payne’s final hours contribute to a sense of uncertainty and unresolved questions surrounding the tragedy. The legal proceedings in Argentina will undoubtedly continue to unfold, seeking to shed light on the circumstances of Liam Payne’s death and to hold those accountable for any wrongdoing. The loss of such a young and vibrant artist leaves a void in the music world and a profound sense of grief amongst his fans, family, and friends.
