Liam Payne's girlfriend Kate Cassidy 'at complete loss' as she issues statement after his death

The girlfriend of Liam Payne has spoken for the first time following his tragic death. Kate Cassidy, has taken to social media to pay tribute to her pop star boyfriend who sadly died after falling from a hotel balcony during the couple's holiday.

In a statement posted on Instagram, she described former One Direction singer Payne as an 'angel' and asked for privacy while she mourns The post by Cassidy, 25, reads: “Thank you for all of the kind words and love that has been sent my way.

"I have been at a complete loss. Nothing about the past few days have felt real. I ask and pray that you’ll give me the space to navigate this in private.

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“Liam, my angel, you are everything. I want you to know I loved you unconditionally and completely. I will continue to love you for the rest of my life. I love you Liam."

News of Liam's death broke on Wednesday (October 16) , after reports of the singer falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. Local police said the singer fell from the third floor into the courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighbourhood of Argentina’s capital, before medics confirmed his death.

According to police in Buenos Aires, officers were initially responding to reports “of an aggressive man who may have been under the effects of drugs and alcohol”.

The heartbreaking incident took place during Payne's holiday with Kate Cassidy, which included a stop at the Movistar Arena to watch and support former bandmate Niall Horan at a concert.

A preliminary autopsy had indicated that Liam suffered 'multiple traumas' leading to 'internal and external bleeding' as a result of the fall.

In an official statement given to The Associated Press, authorities stated that the singer 'jumped from the balcony of his room', apparently dispelling any notions of an accidental fall or foul play. The forensic experts determined that 'the 25 injuries described in the autopsy are compatible with those caused by a fall from a height', the Mirror reports.

Liam's family said they were 'heartbroken' following his death. In a statement, they added: "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."

A joint statement from his One Direction bandmates said they were 'completely devastated' and will miss the singer 'terribly'. The band said: "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. 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."