Rogelio 'Roger' Nores, a close friend of the late singer Liam Payne, has been fully cleared of all criminal charges related to Payne's death. An Argentinian appeals court overturned the negligent manslaughter charges against Nores in February 2025, with prosecutors choosing not to appeal the ruling.
Payne died in October 2024 after falling from the third floor of his hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. Investigations revealed the singer had binged on alcohol and cocaine prior to his death. Nores had been charged in November 2024, with prosecutors alleging he failed in a duty of care towards Payne, who was reportedly struggling with multiple addictions.
However, the judge ruled that Nores was not in a position that imposed a legal duty to prevent the incident or to control Payne's access to drugs or alcohol. Nores has maintained that he was a friend and did everything he could to assist Payne, stating that while he could offer support and have conversations about addiction, the ultimate decisions rested with Payne. He expressed anger and frustration over the tragedy, reflecting on the nature of grief and the helplessness felt when a friend struggles with substance abuse.
The investigation into Payne's death continues, with two suspects accused of selling him cocaine still in prison pending appeals. Investigators are also examining evidence from electronic devices.
Payne's death, attributed to 'polytrauma' following his fall, occurred after he had relapsed into alcohol and drug use following a period of sobriety in 2023. Witnesses reported Payne exhibiting aggressive behavior and seeking out alcohol and cocaine hours before his death. His estate, valued at approximately £21 million, will be inherited by his eight-year-old son, Bear Grey Payne. The singer's UK property, a five-bedroom home in Buckinghamshire, was initially listed for sale but has since been taken off the market.