Tragedy in Ibiza: 19-Year-Old Dundee Stars Ice Hockey Player Gary Kelly Dies in Balcony Fall
**IBIZA, SPAIN — Heartbreak has struck the international ice hockey community following the sudden loss of Gary Kelly, a promising 19-year-old from Scotland who tragically died after falling from a third-floor balcony at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel in San Antonio in the early hours of July 21, 2025.
📅 Incident Details
-
Time & Location: The fall occurred just after midnight on July 21 at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel, a popular music venue and holiday destination .
-
Emergency Response: Two ambulances were quickly dispatched, but sadly, Kelly was pronounced dead at the scene .
-
Investigation Status: Local authorities, including the Guardia Civil, are treating the incident as potentially accidental; surveillance footage suggests he fell unintentionally. A post-mortem examination is pending, with police interviewing witnesses .
-
Hotel Response: Ibiza Rocks has suspended their events “out of respect” and pledged full cooperation with the investigation .
🌟 Remembering a Rising Star
-
Club Affiliations: Kelly played for both the Dundee Stars in the EIHL and the Aberdeen Lynx, having previously played in youth leagues and junior ranks. He scored 10 goals and totaled 17 points in 11 games for the Lynx last season.
-
Scottish Junior Representation: He represented Scotland between U11 and U19 levels, showcasing his talent on a national stage .
-
Tributes:
-
The Dundee Stars expressed profound sorrow:
“Gary was a hugely talented and charismatic individual who had a great future ahead of him.” -
The Aberdeen Lynx wrote:
“Gary was more than just a talented hockey player… On the ice, he gave everything he had. Off the ice, he brought energy, kindness, and an infectious love of life.”
-
🇨🇦 Broader Concerns and Context
-
Kelly’s death marks the second Scottish fatality at Ibiza Rocks this month, following the July 7 death of Evan Thomson, also from Aberdeen .
-
These consecutive tragedies have drawn scrutiny from Scottish officials and concern over guest safety at the venue.
🧩 What Comes Next
-
Investigation: Spanish authorities are continuing their inquiry. Results of the autopsy will be crucial to determine if any foul play, alcohol, or other factors were involved.
-
Consular Support: The UK Foreign Office is assisting Kelly’s family and coordinating with local officials Community Reaction: In Dundee, Aberdeen, and Scotland at large, hockey fans, teammates, and coaches are in mourning—sharing memories and calling for improved safety standards for travelers and holidaymakers.
📝 Final Thoughts
Gary Kelly’s sudden passing is a profound loss to the international ice hockey family. At just 19, he had already left a mark with his skill, passion, and warm personality. His death is compounded by the eerie similarity to another loss so close in time and place, prompting difficult questions and deep grief.
As Spain’s investigation continues, his clubs, family, and fans around the world await answers—and seek ways to honor the memory of a young man whose bright future was cut tragically short.