Gary Kelly from Dundee died immediately after falling from the Ibiza Rocks Hotel, which also saw the death of Evan Thomson from Aberdeen just two weeks prior.
A Scottish teenager, who tragically died after falling from the third floor of Ibiza Rocks Hotel, has been identified as Gary Kelly, an ice hockey player from Dundee.
19-year-old Gary Kelly died on the spot at the same upscale hotel where, only a fortnight earlier, Evan Thomson from Aberdeen had also lost his life. Despite the quick response of two ambulance teams, paramedics reported that nothing could be done to save him.
The incident, which took place in the early hours of Monday, was confirmed by the Civil Guard, who identified the victim as a British national. The news has left Gary’s family devastated, with numerous tributes pouring in on social media.
Gary’s sister, Kharis Kelly, expressed her grief online: “Our hearts are shattered beyond words. Our handsome boy has gone to the other side. Absolutely no words. We are asking everyone to respect our privacy as a family while we try to navigate through this tragic news. You’ll forever be our boy Gary, Sleep tight.”
Gary, who had played ice hockey for both the Dundee Stars and Aberdeen Lynx in the last season, is being remembered as a “hugely talented and charismatic individual”.
A statement from the Dundee Stars read: “We are truly devastated to learn that Gary Kelly has tragically passed away. We send our thoughts and condolences to Gary’s family, partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time.
“Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken to hear this tragic news. Gary was a hugely talented and charismatic individual who had a great future ahead of him.
“His loss will impact many in the ice hockey community and beyond. He will be dearly missed. We respect and support the family’s request for privacy at this extremely difficult time.”
Authorities were alerted to the scene around 12:40 am, and an investigation into the incident has since been initiated. A spokesperson for the Civil Guard commented: “The fall appears to be accidental based on initial footage from cameras. However, as part of the investigation, it is crucial to locate and interview potential witnesses. The results of the autopsy will also play a key role in our ongoing investigation.”
Just earlier this month, on July 7, Evan Thomson, aged 26, fell to his death at the same hotel while on a holiday celebrating his birthday. Following his death, questions concerning safety measures were raised by his family who criticized the hotel for their handling of the situation.
Evan’s sister, Teila, remarked, “Ibiza is known for its party scene, and it astounds me that they don’t have more robust safety measures. I pray no other family has to endure what we are going through. And, once it happened, the hotel’s response was just overwhelmingly disheartening; it was as if it never happened.”
Friends of Evan also noted that the hotel resumed normal operations merely 90 minutes after the incident.
Following Gary’s death, Ibiza Rocks management expressed their deep shock and devastation, opting to suspend all events at the location. “Our priority is to support those affected and their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time, and to fully assist the authorities with their investigations,” a spokesperson stated.
“The safety and well-being of our guests has, and always will remain, our highest priority. Given the seriousness of the situation and out of respect for those involved, we believe it is right to pause our advertised events program at this time,” they added.
Amidst the hotel’s 20th birthday celebrations, events featuring Dizzee Rascal and Rudimental were scheduled, but have since been put on hold. Local residents have frequently complained about noise and disturbances from the hotel’s parties and guests.
A report from a local Ibiza news outlet, Noudiari, following the recent death, highlighted: “This hotel has been the scene of multiple incidents and deaths in recent years, some related to balconing and the use of narcotic substances.”
The report continued, “The situation has generated concern among neighbors, who have complained about the noise and insecurity that the establishment generates in the neighborhood. This latest incident adds to a concerning statistic that has led some to refer to Ibiza Rocks as the ‘Death Hotel’.”
Another tragic event occurred last Monday when a 25-year-old British tourist succumbed to injuries sustained from a fall in a supermarket parking lot in San Antonio the day before. He was rushed to a private island hospital but unfortunately did not survive.
The Foreign Office has stated, “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.”
Hi, I’m Benjamin, a member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a passion for writing and a deep interest in current affairs, I thoroughly enjoy bringing you the latest news and trends that affect our daily lives.
