22-07-2025
Ibiza Rocks Hotel cancels music programme after deaths of two British men this month
Ibiza Rocks Hotel has cancelled its music events following the deaths of two British men at the property this month.
Ice hockey player Gary Kelly, 19, died on Monday, while Scottish tourist Evan Thomson, 26, fell to his death at the same hotel two weeks ago.
In a statement, Ibiza Rocks said it was "deeply shocked and devastated" by the incidents at its venue.
"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," it said.
"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."
The hotel and open-air music venue was due to host rapper Dizzee Rascal this week and drum'n'bass band Rudimental next week.
It is not clear how long the events pause will last.
Tributes have poured in for 'hugely talented and charismatic' Gary Kelly, who played for the Dundee Stars.
'We send our thoughts and condolences to Gary's family, partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time," the club said in a statement.
'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."
Other ice hockey clubs have also remembered the 19-year-old after his suspected fall from the hotel balcony.
Whitley Warriors, who Gary Kelly used to play for, remembered him fondly.
'Whitley Warriors are devastated to learn of the tragic passing of former Warrior Gary Kelly," their post on social media said.
'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.'
Glasgow Clan described his death as "truly heartbreaking" on social media.
"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident during this incredibly difficult time.'
While the Sheffield Steelers also expressed their devastation at the news.
'We send our thoughts and condolences to all that knew him during this difficult time.'
The mother of Evan Thomson, Lel Kellighan, posted on Facebook following his death, saying she was "absolutely heartbroken".
"My son Evan was in a tragic accident whilst on holiday with his friends in Ibiza and sadly passed away," she wrote.
"We are all absolutely broken."
