Ibiza hotel tragedy prompts cancellation of events after deaths of two British men
An Ibiza hotel and music venue popular with UK travellers has cancelled a series of music events following the deaths of two British men on its premises within just two weeks. The Ibiza Rocks Hotel, well known for its open‑air gigs and DJ sets, said it was pausing its programme “out of respect for those involved and due to the seriousness of the situation”.
Gary Kelly, 19, a professional ice hockey player for the Dundee Stars, died at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel on Monday. His club described him as a “hugely talented and charismatic individual” with “a great future ahead of him”, adding that his loss would be felt across the ice hockey community.
The tragedy comes only two weeks after another Scottish tourist, 26‑year‑old Evan Thomson, died after falling at the same venue on 7 July. In a heartfelt post on social media, his mother said: “I’m absolutely heartbroken to write and tell you all, earlier this week my son Evan was in a tragic accident whilst on holiday with his friends in Ibiza and sadly passed away… We are all absolutely broken.”
In a statement, the Ibiza Rocks Hotel said: “We are deeply shocked and devastated by the recent incidents that have tragically occurred. 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. The safety and wellbeing of our guests has, and always will remain, our highest priority.”
Upcoming performances at the hotel, including sets by Dizzee Rascal and drum’n’bass band Rudimental, were part of its summer schedule but are now on hold. The hotel has not confirmed how many events are affected, but said the decision was made to ensure the focus remained on supporting those involved.
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.”
The Dundee Stars added: “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 sadly missed. We respect and support the family’s request for privacy at this extremely difficult time.”
Other teams also paid tribute. The Glasgow Clan wrote on X: “This is truly heartbreaking news. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident during this incredibly difficult time.” The Whitley Warriors added: “Gary iced for Warriors on only a few occasions in the 2023‑24 season but was a popular player in the dressing room despite the shortness of his time at Whitley.”
Find official guidance on staying safe while travelling overseas, here at the UK Foreign Office travel advice page.
For more updates on UK travellers abroad and the latest developments affecting British visitors, visit EyeOnLondon. We’d really value your thoughts on this story, so do share your views in the comments below.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
