The pair met after an accidental text was sent on Thanksgiving.
At the time Jamal was 17, and Wanda was a 57-year-old grandmother and they both lived in Arizona.
The pair struck up an incredible friendship after Wanda mistakenly asked Jamal around for Thanksgiving dinner, thinking she was texting her grandson.
After messages were exchanged, she realized her mistake but didn’t rescind the invitation.
After a plea from Jamal to “still get a plate”, she wrote: “Of course you can. That’s what grandma’s do… feed everyone.”
Speaking to the Arizona Republic the following year, Wanda said she now considers Hinton her “honorary grandson”.
She added: “I’m loving it. I love that you don’t have to know someone or know their background to be nice to them.”
Friends forever
Jamal formed a serendipitous friendship with Wanda, and has spent every Thanksgiving with her family since the heartwarming exchange.
The holiday tradition has been documented in newspaper headlines around the world.
“I don’t know what I would be doing for the holidays this year, last year or years before if I didn’t have Wanda in my life, so I’m just grateful,” Hinton told The Times.
During the rest of the year, the close friends revealed they also try to see each other every two months.
Wanda’s cancer battle
In October 2024, as the pair started getting ready to celebrate their 8th Thanksgiving together, Wanda revealed she has breast cancer.
Supporting her through her battle is Jamal, who posted her story on social media.
Jamalhinton12Wanda revealed she has breast cancer[/caption]
In a statement shared on his Instagram, Wanda said: “Earlier this year, I came down with bronchitis and had a CT scan to check out my lungs.
“That’s when a mass in my breast was detected and they suggested I get a mammogram and that verified I had breast cancer.”
Wanda said that cancer doesn’t run in her family and that all of her previous mammograms had been negative.
Everyone was so kind, supportive, and knowledgeable. My family and friends quickly came to my aid and have supported me through everything.
Wanda Dench
She talked about how she believed the mammogram she got in 2022, would be her last.
“I was wrong,” she said. “After the shock wore off, I met with the most wonderful people at the Breast Cancer Center.
“Everyone was so kind, supportive, and knowledgeable.
“My family and friends quickly came to my aid and have supported me through everything.”
Support from fans
Fans of Wanda and Jamal flooded the post with messages of support.
One wrote: “Sending love to our grandma!”
While another added: “This is one of my favorite stories around Thanksgiving!! Praying for Ms. Wanda.”
This person said: “Sending lots of love and happiness to the best grandma ever.”
Signs of breast cancer
The majority of women who get it are over 50, but younger women and, in rare cases, men can also get breast cancer.
If it’s treated early enough, breast cancer can be prevented from spreading to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer can have a number of symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or area of thickened breast tissue.
Most breast lumps aren’t cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by your doctor. You should also speak to your GP if you notice any of the following:
a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood)
a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
dimpling on the skin of your breasts
a rash on or around your nipple
a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
7 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Liam Payne dead: David Beckham, Ed Sheeran and James Corden lead tributes to One Direction star after death at 31
DAVID Beckham, Ed Sheeran and James Corden are among the celebrities posting tributes to Liam Payne on social media following his tragic death.
The former One Direction star, 31, was found dead by police in Argentina after falling from his hotel balcony on Wednesday afternoon.
GettyLiam Payne was found dead outside his hotel in Argentina on Wednesday afternoon[/caption]
InstagramDavid Beckham has remembered the star[/caption]
InstagramCharlie Puth has paid tribute to his former friend and collaborator[/caption]
InstagramZedd also posted a series of nostalgic photos taken with Liam[/caption]
But a spokesperson for the local ambulance service confirmed Liam was already dead from “extremely serious” injuries by the time police arrived.
The singer-songwriter had smashed his laptop and had to be carried back to his room before his tragic fall, according to TMZ.
Several big names in the music industry who worked on tracks with Liam have shared their heartbreak at news of his death, while A-list celebrities have also spoken out.
Footballing legend Becks shared a picture of the pair suited and booted and wrote: “Such a kind and generous person & will be missed in so many ways [heartbreak emoji].”
TV star Corden said: “Talking about Liam in the past tense is utterly heartbreaking. He was such a loving and kind soul. I will treasure the moments I got to spend with him. My thoughts are with his family today x.”
Sheeran shared: “At a loss for words. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones, every memory I have with him is a great one, just such a heartbreaking situation. Be kind. X.”
Little Mix’s Jade Thirlwall posted: “The news of Liam’s passing is truly heartbreaking. Sending so much love to his family, friends, fans, loved ones, and all who knew him.”
Singer Jade admitted she’d fallen out of touch with Liam in recent years, but fondly recalled their time together in the early days of their career, calling him her “first friend in the industry”.
She said: “I hope you’re at peace now.”
Robbie Williams mentored One Direction during their series of The X Factor and drew parallels between his own struggles and Liam’s.
He wrote on Instagram: “Obviously, my first feelings towards his passing were like everyone else. Shock, sadness and confusion. And to be honest as I write these words that’s where I still am.
“I met the boys on The X Factor and ‘’mentored’ them. I use the word mentored in inverted brackets cos I hardly did anything to be honest. I just hung out with them. They were all cheeky and lovely.
“I enjoyed the light hearted p**s takery and thought about all the times I was that cheeky p**staker with the Popstars that had gone before me when I was in Take That.
“Our paths have crossed ever since that day and I’m fond of them all. Liam’s trials and tribulations were very similar to mine, so it made sense to reach out and offer what I could. So I did.”
He then urged people to think about their comments before sharing them online.
Touching on his own past demons, he explained how he relapsed at 31, the same age Liam was when he died, and was convinced he was going to be the next celeb to die following actor Heath Ledger’s tragic death.
He added: “What a Handsome Talented boy. What a tragic painful loss for his friends, family, fans and by the looks of the energy this moment has created – The World.”
In a drawn picture, he also appeared to share their last email exchange in which he told Liam he was “proud” and to “go get it”.
Devastatingly, he finished the the conversation yesterday with a heartbreak emoji in light of Liam’s death.
ReutersLiam in a video posted on social media filmed just days before he died[/caption]
SplashLiam Payne, 31, found fame with boyband One Direction[/caption]
In his crushing statement, Dermot said: “The worst news. I remember him as a 14 year old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing.
“He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble.
“Sending love and prayers to his family.”
Broadcaster and former X Factor contestant Rylan Clark tweeted: “Extremely sad news. V tragic and so young. RIP Liam x”
German DJ Anton Zaslavski, known as Zedd, posted an emotional statement on X.
The producer, who collaborated with Liam on his 2017 hit Get Low, wrote: “RIP Liam… I can’t believe this is real…absolutely heartbreaking…”
American singer Charlie Puth, who was friends with Liam and also worked with him on a song called Bedroom Floor, has posted a series of Instagram stories dedicated to him.
Alongside photos of the two of them together in their younger days, Charlie wrote: “I am in shock right now. Liam was always so kind to me.
“He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I can not believe he is gone…
“I am so upset right now, may he rest in peace. I am so sorry…”
American rapper and singer Quavo, who featured on Liam’s debut single Strip That Down for his solo album in 2017, posted a photo of Liam captioned: “Rest in paradise.”
JLS band member Marvin Humes reflected on his memories with the singer, sharing: “I first met Liam in 2008 with the JLS boys whilst auditioning for X Factor..he was 14 years old..
“We instantly clicked and looked at him as a little brother..that year it worked out for us but not for him and then 2 years later he went back to audition and One Direction was born..the rest is history..
“Absolutely heartbroken by the tragic news..Liam you wanted to be a global superstar and you did it bro..just can’t believe that things have ended this way..it’s shocking..my thoughts and prayers are with all your family and friends brother..RIP.”
The Wanted star Max George posted a lengthy tribute on social media which reads: “Devastated.
“Liam was an unbelievably supportive during one of the most difficult times in my life. I will never forget that.
“My thoughts are with his family, friends and fans at this horrendous time.
“Rest in peace Liam. Max x”
Flavour Flav then added: “RIP to Liam Payne… much too young.”
Rapper Ty Dolla Sign said he had talked to the boyband singer just two days ago and wrote on Instagram: “Ima miss you frfr sucio.”
He then posted a video of Liam singing as well as a snap showing the pair of them together.
Celebrityhair stylist Lou Teasdale then wrote: “Sending you all so much love.”
BBCRadio 2 presenter Zoe Ball wrote on social media: “Devastating news, dear Liam Payne. Thoughts & love to his family, friends and fans.”
Cher Lloyd, a fellow former X Factor star during the same series as Liam, said: “From being on the show together, visiting each others homes while filming, going on tour together and watching you achieve your dreams.
“I’ll cherish the memories made and the laughs we had. My thoughts are with your family and friends, with everyone who loves you.
“My heart is breaking for your Son Bear. Rest in peace Liam.”
Social media page All On The Board, which features an inspirational quote on boards at London Tube stations per day, dedicated its message to Liam.
It posted an image of the board and added the caption: “Rest in peace Liam Payne.
“You will be forever loved, always missed and never forgotten.
“Sending so much love to those who loved you, your family, your friends, your One Direction brothers and the Directioners, and so much love to your son Bear.”
Capital DJ Roman Kemp uploaded a photo of the pair on Instagram and wrote: “It was an honour, mate.
“Sending all my love and light to your family x”
ITV anchor Lorraine Kelly branded Liam “just adorable” as a re-surfaced clip of her interviewing him aged 15 played out on her Thursday show.
The X Factor – the show which saw Liam and his 1D bandmates find fame – also issued condolences.
On its page on X, a message read: “We are heartbroken by the sad passing of Liam Payne.
“He was immensely talented and, as part of One Direction, Liam will leave a lasting legacy on the music industry and fans around the world.
“Our thoughts are with his friends, family and all who loved him.”
TV presenter Laura Whitmore recalled her memories of interviewing the Steal My Girl singer through the years and wrote alongside an image of the pair: “The One Direction lads first came into MTV when they stole the hearts of the nation on XFactor.
“All talented in their own right, all optimistic and excited about what was ahead.
“Bumped into Liam over the years many times on different shows and out and about and he was always so lovely and giving of his time.
“This particular Brits always sticks with me, he was there with Louis and he was beaming as I could see he was very loved up with someone backstage. Was genuinely so nice to see that excitement.
“Sometimes we forget people in the public eye are real people with real feelings.
“He was a Popstar but more importantly someone’s son, father – loved by so many who are left heartbroken. My thoughts with his loved ones. I can’t believe it, but also I can. Which is devastating.”
Liam’s bandmate Niall Horan‘s brother Greg, 37, also issued a touching tribute.
He wrote: “To say I’m heartbroken is an understatement a weird feeling this morning and all night.
“You were a top young boy to a man, a son, a brother, you are only one of 4 lads I was happy enough to take my place in Niall’s life as a brother.
“You will be forever missed. Liam, words can’t describe how much I want to grab my brother and mind him now while the world shows their memories of you and him and the boys.
“My heart goes out to your family parents and sisters and your son Bear and your 1D brothers.
“10th October we met and we started out that evening as 5 families into one big one 1D family thank you for all the laughs bro watch down on the all your family and mind them lots of love kiddo x x x 1D 4 LIFE x x x”
Popstar Peter Andre simply posted an image of Liam with the words: “So young. So sad,” and a heartbreak Emoji icon.
Britain’s Got Talent judge Amanda Holden shared an image of the pair together with the words: “Such an awful tragedy.
“Sending love to his family and all those who loved him.”
US TV personality and Kim Kardashian‘s best mate Jonathan Cheban then posted: “Sad news.
“RIP to a really great guy!”
Rita Ora, who recorded single For You with Liam, opened up on her heartache.
She wrote on Instagram: “I’m devastated. He had the kindest soul, I will never forget.
“I loved working with him so much – he was just such a joy to be around on and off stage. This tragic news breaks my heart.
“Sending all my love and prayers to his family and loved ones. Our song For You takes on a whole new meaning for me now. R.I.P.”
Liam’s bandmate Zayn Malik‘s sister has also posted her condolences.
She wrote: “Literally heartbroken RIP.
“I have no words,” followed by a series of sad Emoji icons.
InstagramCher Lloyd shared a message of love after being on the same X Factor season as Liam[/caption]
InstagramAmanda Holden posted a photo showing the pair together[/caption]
Laura Whitmore posted a lengthy tribute to the Steal My Girl hitmakerInstagramRoman Kemp said it was an ‘honour’ to know the boyband starInstagram
7 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Met Office names Storm Ashley to bring 80mph ‘danger to life’ winds – as millions battle through sheets of ‘dense’ fog
THE FIRST storm of the season has been named after forecasters issued a “danger to life” warning amid predictions of 80mph winds.
Storm Ashley has been named by Irish meteorological service Met Éireann – which warned of “very strong and gusty southerly winds”, coupled with high spring tides.
Storm Ashley has been named by Met ÉireannLNPA woman walks her dog in Richmond Park in London this morning[/caption]
A yellow weather wind warning was issued from 3am Sunday until midday on MondayStormAshley has been named by Met Eireann and is forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the UK through Sunday and into Monday
They said the warnings were valid starting midday on Sunday until 9pm that night.
Meanwhile the Met Office has warned of “especially strong winds” on Sunday afternoon and evening in Western Scotland.
They said gusts could reach up to 80mph in exposed areas, issuing a yellow weather wind warning from 3am Sunday until midday on Monday.
They said it would be closer to 65mph in other parts of the warning area.
“These strong winds in conjunction with high spring tides may cause some disruption,” the Met Office said.
They added that there is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris.
There is also a chance of damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, and injuries could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.
There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage, the Met Office said.
It comes after the forecaster issued a severe warning lasting right through rush hour and covering much of the South East of England and the Midlands.
The weather agency said: “Areas of fog, dense in places, are likely to cause travel delays this morning.”
The warning was in place until 9am, with the weather slowing down journey times – with cancellations to flights a distinct possibility.
The area covered by the alert includes both Gatwick and Heathrow airports.
The weather is set to turn increasingly wet and windy today.
Although it’s a dry start for many, a low-pressure system is expected to bring strong winds to the north and west – with a yellow wind warning in place until 3pm in Scotland.
This combined with high spring tides may result in some coastal impacts, potentially continuing into the weekend on some coasts, the Met Office says.
Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly said: “A period of strong south to southeasterly winds is likely across western Scotland on Friday morning into the early afternoon, before easing and turning southwesterly through the afternoon.
“Wind gusts of 45-55mph are possible fairly widely for a time, and perhaps in excess of 60mph in more exposed locations.
“Given the wind direction and high spring tides, some disruption is possible.”
However, things will be dry and brighter further south and east, with temperatures near normal or just above average.
The weather is set to remain unsettled going into the weekend, with further rain at times tomorrow.
By Sunday, a deep area of low pressure will arrive from the Atlantic bringing more widespread strong winds, particularly in northern and western areas.
A yellow warning for wind has been issued from 3am on Sunday until midday on Monday.
MET OfficeA weather warning was in place until mid-morning today[/caption]
LNPCyclists ride through the thick fog in the capital[/caption]
7 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Liam Payne’s phone could be key to solving mystery around his tragic balcony fall death – as cops hunt drug dealer
LIAM Payne’s phone could be key to solving unanswered questions after he fell to his death from a hotel balcony.
Police in Argentina believe the circumstances around the former One Direction star’s death are suspicious and possibly involved drugs.
AFPLiam Payne died at the age of 31 on Wednesday[/caption]
White powder and burnt aluminium foil were allegedly found inside Liam’s hotel roomGettyEmergency crews at the hotel in Argentina[/caption]
The Mega AgencyLiam pictured with his One Direction bandmates in 2013[/caption]
Forensic teams reported that a whiskey bottle, lighter and mobile phone were retrieved from the building’s internal courtyard where Liam’s body was found.
But cops are yet to confirm what the substances found in the room are and are due to run tests on them shortly.
AFPLiam fell from a third floor balcony at the CasaSur Hotel in Buenos Aires[/caption]
GettyFans pay tribute to the star outside the CasaSur Hotel[/caption]
In a second appeal for help the receptionist said: “We need you to send someone urgently because I don’t know if the guest’s life is in danger.
“They must be in a room that has a balcony. And well, we’re a little bit worried he’ll do something, that he’ll put his life at risk.”
Liam – who was in Buenos Aires for a holiday after going to see pal Niall Horan’s tour – was found dead in the hotel’s inner courtyard at around 5pm local time (9pm UK time).
His death was confirmed as soon as ambulance crews arrived.
Officials have said “everything indicates” that he was alone when he died and could have been partly or fully unconscious when he fell.
A full toxicology report is still pending and could take weeks to become public.
The prosecutor said that the autopsy showed internal bleeding and 25 traumatic injuries to his skull, limbs and abdomen, consistent with a fall.
One Direction statements in full
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.
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.
Louis Tomlinson wrote: “His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on.
“Thank you for shaping us Liam.
“I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the Uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.
“I wish I got a chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.”
Zayn Malik said: “Liam I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me, I can’t help but think selfishly that there was so many more conversations for us to have in our lives.
“I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life.
“When I was missing home as a 17-year-old kid, you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved.”
He added: “When it came to the music, Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense.
“I knew nothing in comparison, I was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional.
“I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly.
“I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever”.
And Harry Styles wrote: “I am truly devastated by Liam’s passing.
“His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it.
“Liam lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious.
“He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving.
“The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.
“My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicola and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did.”
It said those injuries alone were enough to cause his death.
A lack of defensive injuries on his hands indicated that he may have fallen into a state of unconsciousness, the public prosecutor said.
Last night, his former One Direction bandmates shared an emotional joint tribute.
Liam shot to fame alongside Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik as part of One Direction after auditioning for X Factor in 2010 aged just 14.
They became one of the best-selling boy bands of all time before going their separate ways in 2016.
A statement from the band read: “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.
“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.”
Tributes to Liam Payne
SHOCKED fans, former co-workers, loved ones and friends flooded social media with sad tributes to Liam Payne after news of his death emerged.
Harry Styles’ mum Anne was among the first from One Direction’s camp to share her reaction, posting a photo of Liam and writing ‘Just a boy…’ alongside a broken heart emoji.
Britain’s Got Talent judge Amanda Holden shared an image of the pair together with the words: “Such an awful tragedy.
“Sending love to his family and all those who loved him.”
X Factor star Olly Murs told fans he was “devastated” and “lost for words”.
He wrote on social media: “Liam shared the same passions as me, the same dreams so to see his life now end so young hits hard, I’m truly gutted and devastated for his Family and of course his son Bear losing a dad x”.
Liam Gallaghersaid he was “very sad” and told his followers on X: “Life is precious Kids, you only get to do it once, go easy.”
Former X Factor presenter Dermot O’Leary has also expressed his shock and spoke on This Morning.
He said: “I remember him as a 14 year old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing.
“He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble.”
BBC Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball reacted to the “devastating news” on her show and told fans she hugged her own son Woody tight this morning.
JLS band member Marvin Humes reflected on his memories with the singer, sharing: “I first met Liam in 2008 with the JLS boys whilst auditioning for X Factor..he was 14 years old..
“We instantly clicked and looked at him as a little brother..that year it worked out for us but not for him and then 2 years later he went back to audition and One Direction was born..the rest is history..
“Absolutely heartbroken by the tragic news..Liam you wanted to be a global superstar and you did it bro..just can’t believe that things have ended this way..it’s shocking..my thoughts and prayers are with all your family and friends brother..RIP.”
Niall Horan’s brother Greg shared an emotional tribute to Liam, praising him as a “top young man”.
He added: “You will be forever missed. Liam, words can’t describe how much I want to grab my brother and mind him now while the world shows their memories of you and him and the boys.
“My heart goes out to your family parents and sisters and your son Bear and your 1D brothers.
“10th October we met and we started out that evening as 5 families into one big one 1D family thank you for all the laughs bro watch down on all your family and mind them lots of love kiddo x x x 1D 4 LIFE x x x”
German DJ Anton Zaslavski, otherwise known as Zedd, has taken to X with a devastated statement.
The producer, who worked with Liam on his 2017 hit Get Low, wrote: “RIP Liam… I can’t believe this is real…absolutely heartbreaking…”
American singer,Charlie Puth, who was friends with Liam and also collaborated with him on a song called Bedroom Floor, has posted a series of Instagram stories dedicated to him.
Alongside photos of the two of them together in their younger days, Charlie wrote: “I am in shock right now. Liam was always so kind to me.
“He was one of the first major artists I got to work with. I can not believe he is gone…
“I am so upset right now, may he rest in peace. I am so sorry…”
Irish singer duo Jedwardalso took to social media, saying: “RIP Liam Payne. Condolences to friends and family.”
In another tweet, they added: “Sending strength to Cheryl and his son Bear. And all the One direction Family. RIP Liam Payne.”
American media personality Paris Hilton shared: “So upsetting to hear the news of Liam Payne passing. Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. RIP my friend.”
ITV weather presenter Alex Beresford shared a news video about Liam’s tragic death on Instagram, adding: “Can’t believe this! RIP Liam.”
Meanwhile Love Island star Molly Marsh penned: “I’m so taken aback, rest in peace.”
James Cordon also paid his own tribute, describing the star as a “loving and kind soul”.
The Gavin and Stacey actor wrote on Instagram: “Talking about Liam in the past tense is utterly heart-breaking.
“I will treasure the moments I got to spend with him. My thoughts are with his family today x.”
Payne previously appeared on Cordon’s The Late Late Show in America.
Former Little Mix star Jade Thirwall – who won X Factor with her bandmates one year after One Direction took part – described him as “the first friend I made in this industry”.
She said: “We fell out of touch as the years went by, but back in 2008 he was the first friend I made in this industry.
“Both of us so young, so ambitious, both hoping we’d ‘make it’. I hope you are at peace now”.
Camila Cabello described his death as a “tragedy” and said he “made an impression” on her when she was a young girl.
7 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on One of the last people to see Liam Payne alive reveals his ‘disturbing’ behaviour in final hours before his tragic death
ONE of the final people to see Liam Payne alive has revealed how the star displayed “disturbing” behaviour shortly before he died.
The woman also told of a shocking admission the former One Direction star made minutes before he fell to his death from a hotel balcony.
This is understood to be the final photo of LiamWhite powder and burnt aluminium foil were allegedly found inside Liam Payne’s hotel roomA smashed up TV and champagne glasses were also picturedClarinAPLiam pictured performing at MetLife stadium in 2015[/caption]
She said Liam told her: “I used to be in a boy band – that’s why I’m so f**ked up.”
Rebecca, not her real name, was also staying at the CasaSur Hotel in Argentina when Liam, 31, fell to his death on Wednesday.
The 28-year-old said she has been left “shaken” by what happened, having seen Liam just moments before he died.
She told the Mail how “there was something a bit desperate” about Liam’s behaviour.
Rebecca encountered Liam in the foyer of the hotel in Buenos Aires on Wednesday afternoon and took photos of him at 4.26pm local time (8.26pm UK time).
Police were called to the hotel at 5.04pm after Liam fell, and after an ambulance arrived at 5.11pm he was declared dead.
Rebecca, from Washington DC, said staff at the hotel were “a little on edge” because Liam hadn’t checked out of his suite as he was due to that morning.
She said when she entered the lobby area, Liam was waiting by the lift and “wanted someone to recognise him”.
Rebecca added: “When the lift came he suddenly said to us without any prompting: ‘Yes, I’m Liam!’ really drawing it out, and then said ‘All right come on you lot, get in the elevator with me, I love a cuddle’.
“I decided against it and waited for the next one, but some of the other girls got in with him and half way up, he started saying ‘Oh, you’re Americans, I live in West Palm Beach.
“I know Americans. You guys are f***ing crazy! You guys are f***ing dangerous!
“And then he grabs a girl who I think was with him and starts fake choking her, only lightly, but the others thought it was really disturbing.”
Rebecca said when she returned to the foyer around ten minutes later, Liam came back to the area and laid on the sofa with his laptop.
She claims he became “upset” by an email on his screen and shouted “f**k this s**t mate” before smashing the laptop on the ground.
Rebecca added: “Everyone, especially the staff was really shocked. It’s a high-end hotel and his behaviour was so out of place – people were just chilling.
“I went over, asked ‘are you OK?’ But he just kind of grunted. Then he said ‘I used to be in a boyband. That’s why I’m so f**ked up.”
Rebecca said hotel staff were “freaking out and watching him really nervously”.
She also claims someone “from his entourage” apologised on Liam’s behalf and said: “I’m sorry, he just gets so high sometimes.”
Moments later, Rebecca said Liam again returned to the lobby and “just tripped and fell flat on his face”.
She said staff then helped him back in the lift.
Brett Watson, another guest at the hotel, said he and others saw Liam “causing a disturbance” minutes before he died.
Watson, from Chicago, told ITV Liam appeared to “pass out” in the lobby before he “had to be physically taken back up to his room”.
ReutersThe singer fell to his death into the courtyard of the CasaSur Hotel[/caption]
APPolice pictured outside the hotel[/caption]
In a second appeal for help the receptionist said: “We need you to send someone urgently because I don’t know if the guest’s life is in danger.
“They must be in a room that has a balcony. And well, we’re a little bit worried he’ll do something, that he’ll put his life at risk.”
Liam – who was in Buenos Aires for a holiday after going to see pal Niall Horan’s tour – was found dead in the hotel’s inner courtyard at after 5pm local time (9pm UK time).
His death was confirmed as soon as ambulance crews arrived.
Cops discovered “what appeared to be narcotics, alcohol, destroyed objects and furniture” in his room at the Hotel CasaSur in Palermo.
Photos published by Argentine media showed white powder, burnt aluminium foil and a smashed TV screen inside his suite.
Forensic teams reported that a whiskey bottle, lighter and mobile phone were retrieved from the building’s internal courtyard where Liam’s body was found.
But cops are yet to confirm what the substances found in the room are and are due to run tests on them shortly.
The singer had been open about his battles with addiction in the past.
Officials have said “everything indicates” that he was alone when he died and could have been partly or fully unconscious when he fell.
A full toxicology report is still pending and could take weeks to become public.
One Direction statements in full
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.
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.
Louis Tomlinson wrote: “His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on.
“Thank you for shaping us Liam.
“I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the Uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.
“I wish I got a chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.”
Zayn Malik said: “Liam I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me, I can’t help but think selfishly that there was so many more conversations for us to have in our lives.
“I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life.
“When I was missing home as a 17-year-old kid, you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved.”
He added: “When it came to the music, Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense.
“I knew nothing in comparison, I was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional.
“I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly.
“I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever”.
And Harry Styles wrote: “I am truly devastated by Liam’s passing.
“His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it.
“Liam lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious.
“He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving.
“The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.
“My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicola and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did.”
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