Zayn Malik in 'absolute bits' and supporting Liam Payne's family after death

Payne died of multiple traumas and internal and external bleeding caused by a fall from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, the Argentinian prosecutor’s office has said.

Zayn Malik is "in absolute bits" after finding out about Liam Payne’s shock death "in the early hours of the morning". ITV The X Factor star Payne died of multiple traumas and internal and external bleeding caused by a fall from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, the Argentinian prosecutor’s office has said.

A source close to Zayn, also 31, has now shared how his former bandmate has been coping with the devastating news. A US music producer currently working with him told Daily Mail.com how the hitmaker is surrounded by loved ones as they "don’t want him to be alone" during this difficult time.

They said: "He is in shock, and his parents have been in touch with Liam’s family to offer their support and condolences." The source went on to reveal the pair hadn't spoken in "a while" due to previous disputes but "respected each other from a distance".

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"They didn’t hate each other but they couldn’t see eye to eye on different things. But they both felt that they had been exploited in the music industry," the insider said. Payne’s family said in a statement that they were “heartbroken” by his death. “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.”

One Direction were formed on The X Factor in 2010. Host Dermot O’Leary paid tribute to Payne, describing him as “a joy” who “had time for everyone, [was] polite, grateful, and was always humble”. Rebecca Ferguson, who was runner-up in the seventh series of X Factor, in which One Direction placed third, and has been outspoken about abuse within the music industry, recalled meeting Payne in a taxi from Euston station to the show.

“I can’t help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead,” she tweeted. “I’ve spoken for years about the exploitation and profiteering of young stars and the effects – many of us are still living with the aftermath and the PTSD. Many of us are devastated and reflective today as it has finally taken its first victim.”