Scottish sports star dies after hotel balcony fall in Ibiza

The Herald Scotland

3 days ago

The 19-year-old ice hockey star played for both [[Dundee]] Stars and Aberdeen Lynx last season.
A statement from Dundee Stars read: "The Dundee Stars 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 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."
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"We respect and support the family's request for privacy at this extremely difficult time."
Aberdeen Lynx also paid tribute, writing: "The Lynx family is heartbroken to share the devastating news of the sudden passing of one of our brightest young stars, Gary Kelly, while on holiday.
"Gary was more than just a talented hockey player — he was a young man full of heart, passion, and dedication. On the ice, he gave everything he had. Off the ice, he brought energy, kindness, and an infectious love of life that lifted everyone around him. He wore his heart on his sleeve, and that spirit left a lasting mark on our team, our club, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
"Gary's potential was limitless, but even more than that, he was simply a brilliant person to be around. He was part of our family, and his absence leaves a hole that cannot be filled.
"We send our deepest condolences to Gary's family and friends at this unimaginably difficult time. Our thoughts are with you, and we stand with you in grief and in love.
"As a club, we are doing all we can to support our players and members as they come to terms with this tragic loss.
"Rest easy, Gary — you will always be one of our brightest stars."
Scottish Ice Hockey, the governing body for ice hockey in Scotland, added: "It is with deep sadness that Scottish Ice Hockey has learned of the sudden passing of Gary Kelly, a young athlete who represented both his clubs and his country with distinction.
"Gary was a dedicated and talented player who proudly wore the Scotland jersey. He brought commitment, energy, and integrity to the sport both on and off the ice. His passion for hockey and the positive impact he had on teammates, coaches, and those around him will not be forgotten.
"At just 19 years old, Gary had already demonstrated remarkable potential and was widely respected throughout the Scottish ice hockey community. His love for the game and the contribution he made to the clubs he played for have left a lasting legacy.
"On behalf of everyone at Scottish Ice Hockey, we extend our deepest condolences to Gary's family, friends, and teammates at this incredibly difficult time.
"We join them in mourning the loss of a young man who gave so much to the sport we all cherish. Gary will be remembered with admiration, respect, and great fondness."
The death of the teenager comes weeks after young Scottish holidaymaker died at the same hotel in similar circumstances.
Evan Thomson, 26, from Aberdeen, died after falling from a sixth-floor balcony at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel on July 7.
On Monday afternoon, Ibiza Rocks issued a statement and confirmed that it had paused events following the deaths.
The statement read: "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.
"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."