Liam Payne's ex-fiancée Maya Henry finally breaks silence after star's death with 'gratitude' message

Liam Payne's ex-fiancée Maya Henry has spoken out for the first time since the tragic death of the singer last month.

The couple began their romance in 2019 and got engaged the following year in August 2020, but ended their relationship in May 2022.

On Thursday November 28 on social media, amidst Thanksgiving celebrations, Maya broke her silence to express her gratitude, sharing a picture with the caption: "Happy Thanksgiving. Grateful for family, friends and God."

The One Direction star, Liam Payne, passed away on the 16th of October, 2024, after a fall from the third floor of an Argentine hotel, where he had been vacationing for two weeks with his girlfriend Kate Cassidy. Since Liam's untimely demise, three individuals have been charged, and autopsy results disclosed multiple trauma-induced "internal and external haemorrhage" as the cause of death.

A toxicology report revealed the presence of antidepressants and cocaine in Liam's system at the time of death, despite him being reportedly drug-free days prior. Reports have surfaced suggesting Class A drugs were stealthily delivered to Liam's hotel room hidden inside a Dove soap box, amid claims by hotel staff that only employees have access to soap supplies.

Witness accounts and a police report filed post-incident suggest that Liam may have been trying to flee his hotel room, contemplating using the balcony as an escape route. The discovery of a bag on his body within the hotel's internal courtyard has led to speculation that he might have been planning to vacate his room secretly.

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Maya has faced harsh online trolling following the death of Liam. Before his passing, she had made allegations about Liam's conduct during their time together, which incited anger among fans, intensifying after his death.

Many have posted spiteful comments under Maya's most recent social media post, shared before Liam's demise. At that time, Maya was promoting her first book, 'Looking Forward', a novel mirroring real life where a girl falls for a pop star.

Prior to Liam's death, Maya, a model, sent a cease and desist letter to him, accusing him of persistently reaching out to her through various iCloud accounts.

This week saw thousands of Liam's admirers rallying behind a petition for a statue or mural in his memory to be installed in his birthplace of Wolverhampton. The fans, including those from around the world, are eager for a lasting tribute in the city where he was raised by his parents Karen and Geoff.

The Change.org petition, with nearly 6,000 signatures to date, reads: "The recent passing of Liam Payne has touched the hearts of many, not just the unbreakable community of One Direction fans, but people worldwide. As individuals who have been profoundly impacted by the loss of this amazing talent, we ask for a permanent structure or mural to be erected in Wolverhampton in his honour."

The petition went on to say: "Liam Payne's artistry has reached out and touched countless lives. His music was a harmonious blend of inspiration and comfort that resonated in the hearts of millions. His life and legacy deserve to be commemorated in a way that is as enduring as the light he imparted unto the world."

"It suggested that by erecting a permanent structure in Wolverhampton, we can ensure that Liam Payne's memory will be preserved for future generations. This memorial will not only serve as a place to pay respects, but also a reminder of the incredible impact that individuals can make on the world."

The proposal is for the city to collaborate with local artists to "create a memorial that reflects the spirit and essence of Liam Payne - his roots, his musical journey, and his incredible contribution to the international music community."

The petition continued: "This act of remembrance can provide comfort and solace to those who have been touched by his life and passing.

"Let us honour Liam Payne's legacy in a lasting way. A way that allows people from all walks of life to find a space to remember him and the joy his music brought into their lives.

"There is no better tribute to a man who dedicated his life to reaching people through his art," it concluded.

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