Ibiza is famous for its electric music scene, lively beaches, and late-night parties that stretch into the early hours.
But for the Ibiza Rocks Hotel, a hotspot for British tourists in San Antonio, the mood has dramatically shifted.
What should have been a summer of celebration—marking its 20th anniversary with headliners like Dizzee Rascal and Rudimental—has turned into a season of sorrow after a string of devastating incidents on its premises.
Two Young British Tourists Die Weeks Apart
The venue’s management made the difficult decision to cancel all upcoming events after two British men lost their lives on the hotel grounds within just two weeks.
The most recent tragedy happened in the early hours of July 21, when 19-year-old Gary Kelly fell from the third floor of the hotel.
Spanish police say early investigations suggest it was a tragic accident.
Just days before, Evan Thomson, 26, also died on the hotel grounds on July 7 in what has been described as another accidental fall.
Hotel Responds With Statement of Shock and Grief
In a statement shared across social media, Ibiza Rocks said it was “deeply shocked and devastated” and that out of respect for the victims and their loved ones, all scheduled events would be put on hold.
“Our priority is to support those affected and assist the authorities in their investigations,” the hotel added.
“The safety and wellbeing of our guests has, and always will remain, our highest priority.”
All guests with bookings have been contacted directly via email about the cancellations.
Tributes Pour In for Gary Kelly
Gary Kelly, the 19-year-old who died in the most recent fall, has been remembered with an outpouring of love from his community.
His girlfriend, Louise Essery, posted an emotional tribute, writing, “Gary taught me valuable lessons I’ll carry with me forever… I’m struggling to understand how you are no longer with me.”
His former ice hockey teams, Dundee Stars and Aberdeen Lynx, both honored him as a young man full of “heart, passion, and dedication.”
Aberdeen Lynx described him as “more than just a talented hockey player”—he was someone who brought light, energy, and joy to everyone around him.
Emergency Services Could Not Save Him
Two ambulances were called to the hotel around 12:40am after Gary’s fall, but paramedics could not revive him.
Authorities confirmed he had already died by the time help arrived.
Court officials later authorised the removal of his body at 2:40am.
Spanish police are continuing to investigate but believe at this stage that the fall was accidental.
Evan Thomson Was Celebrating His Birthday
Only two weeks earlier, Evan Thomson, 26, also tragically lost his life at the same hotel.
He had travelled to Ibiza from Aberdeen to celebrate his birthday with friends.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but Evan died due to the severity of his injuries.
A local hospital confirmed the sad news: “Despite all efforts of medical personnel, the patient who fell yesterday in San Antonio has died.”
His mother, Lel Kellighan, shared her heartbreak online, writing, “We are all absolutely broken… please allow us some time.”
The hotel described the situation as “truly tragic” and extended support to Evan’s friends and family, offering direct contact with senior staff.
Not the First Incidents This Year
Sadly, these weren’t the only tragedies at the hotel this year.
On April 30, a 33-year-old British woman collapsed and died in her hotel room.
Emergency crews attempted to revive her with CPR for 40 minutes, but she couldn’t be saved.
Reports later revealed she had underlying heart conditions and had been fitted with a defibrillator implant.
Just a few days before that, on April 27, a 19-year-old Italian tourist of Turkish descent fell from a fourth-floor balcony.
She had reportedly lost her keycard and was trying to climb from a shared area into her room when she slipped and fell.
She had only just arrived on the island the day before.
Authorities and Hotel Staff Continue Investigations
The hotel says it is fully cooperating with local authorities as investigations continue into each incident.
“Given the seriousness of the situation and out of respect for those involved, we believe it is right to pause our advertised events programme at this time,” the statement reiterated.
A spokesperson from the UK Foreign Office also confirmed they are supporting Gary Kelly’s family and are in contact with Spanish officials.
A Summer of Reflection, Not Celebration
What was supposed to be a season of parties and music in the sun has become a time of mourning.
Ibiza Rocks, once buzzing with anticipation for milestone celebrations, now stands in quiet reflection—pausing its plans to honor the memories of the lives lost.
As families grieve and investigations unfold, the focus has shifted from nightlife and music to safety, support, and deep sorrow for those tragically taken far too soon.
