Liam Payne’s family released a public statement regarding the One Direction star’s tragic death on Wednesday (October 16), after the singer fell from his third story hotel room in Buenos Aires. A family spokeswoman shared a statement with The Telegraph: “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.” Members of One Direction have taken to social media to share touching tributes to their late bandmate.

Harry Styles wrote of Liam on Instagram, “His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it. The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life.” While Zayn Malik shared this remembrance on Instagram, “I lost a brother when you left us…what l’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly. I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever.” (NME)