What else did Liam Payne’s autopsy say?
According to the release, coroners reported 25 injuries in Payne’s autopsy that were “compatible with those caused by a fall from height.”
“They also pointed out that the head injuries were sufficient to cause death,” the release continued, “while the internal and external hemorrhages in the skull, thorax, abdomen and limbs contributed to the mechanism of death.”
In addition, the release said forensic experts found “no defensive injuries” after examining the One Direction alum and that “no injuries were observed that would suggest the intervention of third parties.”
Still, questions remain—including about the state Payne may have been in at the time of his fall.
“The prosecution said that, given the position in which the body was left and the injuries from the fall,” the release added, “it is presumed that Payne did not adopt a reflex posture to protect himself and that he could have fallen into a state of semi- or total unconsciousness.”
As medical examiners seek more answers, the release noted, they’ve requested histopathological, biochemical and toxicological studies.
“At this point,” the release read, “the analysis of the stomach contents, alcohol and toxins in the blood, vitreous humor, bile, nasal swab and urine for the determination of alcohol and toxins was required.”
A preliminary toxicology report revealed Payne had drugs in his system at his time of death, an official with direct knowledge told The New York Times.