“Living without you is impossible”: Liam Payne’s sister pays heartbreaking tribute 6 months after his death

On April 16, 2025, Ruth Gibbins, sister of singer Liam Payne, marked the six-month anniversary of his passing with a heartfelt Instagram message. Liam Payne died on October 16, 2024, after falling from a balcony at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires at age 31.

In her note, Ruth said,

“Living without you is impossible, so for now, I exist,”

conveying the depth of her loss. She described mornings as feeling

“plunged underwater, gasping for air that never comes to relieve me”.

Her words underline the daily struggle of adjusting to life without her brother and the effort to find moments of peace.

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Ruth describes her ongoing struggle six months on after Liam Payne's death

Ruth opened her tribute to Liam Payne by writing,

“My head is still screaming for you”,

a raw admission of the pain she endures each day.

She explained that waking up often feels like being submerged, with no relief from the grief that overwhelms her. Despite these emotions, she tries to smile and laugh at the right moments, but it all leaves her feeling exhausted. She also reflected on their shared jokes and how everyday tasks now feel incomplete without his brother's companionship. These observations offer insight into the ongoing challenges faced by those who lose a close family member.

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Her memories bring both comfort and pain

Ruth also recalls how certain memories allow her to feel love rather than just loss. She shared a moment of laughter, trying to recreate a YouTube video, noting that such scenes are now bittersweet.

She also mentioned hearing his laugh in her head and sensing subtle signs of his presence guiding her decisions. However, she acknowledged that these memories are always tinged with sadness, as they remind her that no new ones can be made. This mix of joy and grief highlights how memories can both heal and reopen wounds after a loss.

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Official reports confirm the cause and circumstances of death

A UK inquest in December 2024 officially classified Liam Payne’s death as polytrauma, indicating multiple traumatic injuries. The Argentine authorities’ preliminary autopsy showed internal and external haemorrhages consistent with a high fall.

Toxicology results revealed significant levels of alcohol, cocaine, and prescription antidepressants in his system. Some individuals, including hotel staff and Liam Payne’s friend, faced manslaughter or drug-related charges, though recent hearings have led to dismissals. These findings provide a clearer understanding of the events leading up to the tragic accident.

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Ruth Gibbins’s tribute, six months after Liam Payne's death, offers a candid look at ongoing grief and the effort to find solace in memory. Her words, including

“Love you so much more than these words or my tears are capable of expressing,”

highlight the unspoken bond between siblings.

The inquest’s findings and toxicology reports help piece together the circumstances, while legal proceedings evolve. This combination of personal reflection and official detail gives readers a fuller picture of both loss and fact. As Ruth continues her journey, her tribute stands as a testament to the enduring connection she shares with Liam.

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