Liam Payne’s Family Speaks Out In The Wake Of His Tragic & Untimely Death

Liam Payne’s family is reeling in the wake of his tragic death.

Less than 24 hours after the One Direction alum suddenly passed away after falling from his third story balcony at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Wednesday afternoon, his family is speaking out. An unspecified relative told DailyMail.com on Thursday:

“We are utterly devastated by the news.”

We can’t even begin to imagine what they’re all feeling right now. This all remains just so completely tragic.

The late 31-year-old was raised by parents Karen and Geoff Payne in Wolverhampton, UK. He grew up alongside older sisters Nicola and Ruth, who are said to have arrived at the family home early on Thursday morning. Liam’s parents reportedly left “in a hurry” at around midnight after the pop singer’s death, according to a neighbor:

“They were seen leaving in a hurry at around midnight last night but I’m not sure if they had bags. You can’t imagine what they are going through. I know Liam liked to get back here when he could. They will be utterly heartbroken as they [were] very close. His home town always had a place in his heart. The community is going to be devastated. I think the sisters are there now, your heart goes out to them.”

So, so sad.

Multiple other neighbors also claimed that Karen and Geoff left their home in the wake of Liam’s death. They, too recalled positive memories with the Strip That Down singer.

BBC has since received the following statement from the family:

“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.”

Absolutely awful. Our hearts continue to be with the Payne family. Rest in peace, Liam.

[Images via Graham Finney/WENN]