Ibiza, the sun-drenched island synonymous with vibrant nightlife and carefree holidays, finds itself under a somber cloud. The Ibiza Rocks Hotel, typically a pulsating hub of music and celebration, has made the difficult decision to pause its lively events program. This comes after two young British men tragically died on its premises within weeks of each other, casting a pall over what should be a season of revelry. It’s a heartbreaking situation that has deeply affected the families involved and sent ripples of shock across the UK and the island.
The first incident, on July 7th, saw Evan Thomson, 26, from Scotland, tragically die after a fall at the hotel. Just a fortnight later, on Monday, July 21st, another young Scot, 19-year-old professional ice hockey player Gary Kelly, also passed away at the same venue. The close timing and devastating nature of these incidents have understandably led the hotel to take immediate action, canceling upcoming music events, including highly anticipated performances by artists like Dizzee Rascal and Rudimental. This move, they stated, is born out of profound respect and in recognition of the sheer gravity of the situation.
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.
Read morehttps://t.co/ZI8oU7WWYl pic.twitter.com/NIa1MmbYtS
— Dundee Stars🏒🥅 (@DundeeStars) July 21, 2025
Ibiza Rocks released a statement expressing their deep shock and devastation. They emphasized that their “priority is to support those affected and their loved ones during this tough time, and to assist the authorities with their investigations fully.” The hotel also reiterated its unwavering commitment that the “safety and wellbeing of our guests has, and always will remain, our highest priority.” This assurance comes as authorities begin their probes into the circumstances surrounding these tragic losses.
Ibiza Rocks Hotel has paused all music events following the deaths
Tributes Pour in for Young Lives Cut Short
The death of Gary Kelly has sent shockwaves, particularly through the close-knit ice hockey community. His club, the Dundee Stars, shared their immense grief, remembering him as a “hugely talented and charismatic individual who had a great future ahead of him.” They extended their heartfelt thoughts and deepest condolences to Gary’s family, partner, and friends, acknowledging the profound impact his passing will have on everyone who knew him, both in the sport and beyond. The club also respectfully requested privacy for the family during this tough time. Other prominent ice hockey teams across the UK, including the Glasgow Clan and Whitley Warriors, swiftly joined in, sharing their sorrow and tributes, underscoring the widespread shock and sadness felt within the sport. The Glasgow Clan described the news as “truly heartbreaking.” At the same time, the Whitley Warriors, for whom Kelly briefly played, noted he was a “popular player in the dressing room despite the shortness of his time at Whitley.”
Ibiza Rocks pauses events after British men die at venue.
Evan Thomson’s mother also shared her raw grief on social media, describing her son’s death as a “tragic accident” and expressing the family’s profound heartbreak. Her poignant words painted a vivid picture of a family shattered by an unforeseen tragedy during what should have been a joyous holiday.
Investigations Underway as cloud Community Mourns
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has confirmed they are actively providing support to the families of both British men who died in Spain and is in close contact with local authorities as investigations into the incidents continue. This government involvement cloud underscores the seriousness of these events and its commitment to understanding what transpired.
These tragic events serve as a stark and painful cloud reminder cloud that even in places known globally for joy and unbridled revelry, unforeseen dangers can tragically emerge. The cloud incidents at Ibiza Rocks Hotel have cast a long shadow over the island’s vibrant summer season, prompting reflection cloud on safety measures and visitor well-being at its bustling tourist hotspots. As investigations unfold, the cloud focus remains firmly on understanding the circumstances leading to these two heartbreaking deaths and offering solace to the grieving families.
