The statement, which was signed off by Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson posted on the band’s official Instagram page, which hasn’t been used since 2020.

“We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say,” they said.

“But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly.

“The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever.

“For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly.

“We love you Liam. Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry.”

One Direction pop star Liam Payne died of multiple traumas and internal bleeding after plunging from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, prosecutors say, adding an initial search suggested the fall came after substance abuse.

Payne, 31, who shot to global fame with the boy band, was found dead after he fell from a third-floor hotel room balcony in Buenos Aires on Wednesday, triggering an outpouring of fan tributes.

In the first official details of the autopsy, the prosecutors office said coroners had found 25 injuries compatible with those caused by a fall from height, including fatal head injuries, with internal and external bleeding.

It added that there were no signs of a third party being involved, though the incident was being investigated as a "suspicious death" out of protocol.

With AAP.

Image: Getty