The sudden passing of One Direction’s Liam Payne sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, leaving fans heartbroken. Payne’s former bandmates – Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan – have also shared a joint statement expressing their shock and devastation.

On October 17, One Direction released a heartfelt joint statement on Instagram, reflecting on Payne’s impact on their lives and the void his absence leaves. “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing,” read the post. “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.” Payne died at 31 on October 16 after falling from the third-floor balcony of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The initial report concludes that the former One Direction star appeared to be alone and under the influence of substances when he fell at 5:07pm.