Church fears Liam Payne's devoted fans may become 'grave robbers' to take mementos left in tribute
AMERSHAM, ENGLAND: The final resting place of Liam Payne, the cherished One Direction singer, has emerged as a potential target for fans who might try to take souvenirs left in tribute.
Church authorities have expressed concerns about this possibility. St Mary's Church in the UK, Payne's burial site, is reportedly preparing for a surge of fans wishing to visit the grave after the untimely death of the 31-year-old musician.
Church bracing for influx of fans as Liam Payne’s grave faces potential disruption
Radar Online has shed light on a situation where the church, serving as the final resting place for Payne, is reportedly "bracing" for an influx of people potentially disturbing the grave site.
"The church authorities are braced for an army of fans who are set to descend on Liam's final resting place," a showbiz insider recently disclosed to RadarOnline.
“There is bound to be a lot of interest in the first few weeks and there is a worry that devotees will be tempted to take items left in honor of Liam.”
Just days after the funeral of the late 31-year-old British star, “there is talk of manning the spot with a couple of round-the-clock security guards.”
This investment in comprehensive security checks is reportedly set to be implemented for “at least the first couple of weeks while interest quietens and things get back to normal.”
The source continued, stating, “The last thing his grieving family needs is the prospect of grave robbers rearing their ugly heads.”
Liam Payne’s funeral draws emotional tributes
The world has witnessed a profound expression of sorrow following Liam Payne's death. The singer met a tragic end after a fall from a third-floor balcony at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024.
Early in November, Argentine prosecutors confirmed that Liam had consumed cocaine, alcohol, and a prescription antidepressant before his death. Concurrently, police detained three individuals linked to his passing, accusing them of supplying him with narcotics.
Photographs from the funeral showcased floral tributes celebrating Payne's legacy. The entrances of the ancient 12th-century church were adorned with red and orange foliage and white roses, creating a touching tribute.
In attendance at Payne's funeral on November 20, were his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, his ex and the mother of his son Bear, Cheryl Cole, and 'The X Factor' icon Simon Cowell, who played a role in forming One Direction. The intimate memorial was organized exclusively for family and close friends.