Aberdeen hockey star dies in fall at Ibiza hotel weeks after fellow Scot

A teenager has died after reportedly falling from a balcony in Spain just weeks after another Scot died at the same hotel.

Gary Kelly died while on holiday at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel in San Antonio in the early hours of Monday morning.

The 19-year-old was a promising ice hockey player from Dundee with team Aberdeen Lynx describing him as one of their “brightest young stars”.

Local Spanish media have reported that the teenager died after falling from the third floor of the hotel.

The death comes just two weeks after Evan Thomson from Aberdeen died at the same hotel after also falling from a height while celebrating his 26th birthday.

Ibiza Rocks has suspended all events due to take place “out of respect for those involved” and says it will fully assist authorities.

Spanish police have launched an investigation into the death, which they say “appears to be an accident”

‘A simply brilliant person’

Gary started his career in the Dundee Stars Junior set-up and represented Scotland at U17 level.

The teenager joined the Lynx for the 2022/23 season and had a brief stint with the Dundee Rockets before returning to the North East.

Sharing the news of his death, the club said: “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.”

The Dundee Stars added: “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.”

Hotel cancels events

In a statement following Gary’s death on Monday morning, Ibiza Rocks said: “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.

“All customers will be informed directly via email.”

A spokesperson for the Guardia Civil on the island added: “For now, it appears to have been an accident. As always, an investigation is underway, and we’re awaiting an autopsy to determine the cause of death with certainty.”

A spokesperson for the Foreign Office said: “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.”