Else Beekman
Hotel owners on Ibiza have raised the alarm following the deaths of five tourists in recent months, all of whom died after falling from balconies. The local hotel federation suspects the emergence of new drugs may be a contributing factor to the fatal tourist falls.
All five incidents occurred in the party resort of Sant Antoni. Three of the five deaths took place at the same venue, the Ibiza Rocks Hotel. A sixth victim, a 47-year-old Belgian man, survived a fall but sustained multiple fractures.
The incidents appear to be linked to the dangerous trend known as ‘balconing’, where individuals, often under the influence of alcohol or drugs, jump from balconies into swimming pools or attempt to climb between balconies.
“Something strange is happening”
“This is deeply concerning,” said Manuel Sendino, spokesperson for the Hotel Federation of Ibiza and Formentera (Fehif). “Something strange is going on. We don’t know what to make of it. Nothing happens for years, and then suddenly we have multiple incidents. Coincidence is rarely the most logical explanation.”
In an interview with Diario de Ibiza, Sendino questioned whether toxicological tests had been conducted on the victims of the fatal falls. He also wants to know what the results showed. Furthermore, he noted that this summer has seen a noticeable increase in drug-related cases involving hallucinations.
Fears over new synthetic drugs
Sendino raised concerns about the possible circulation of a new generation of synthetic drugs on the island. “These deaths could be coincidental, but without toxicology reports, we can’t be certain.”
Local media approached the Guardia Civil for further information regarding toxicological analyses of the victims but received no response.
DJ death adds to concerns
Adding to the growing unease, Sendino cited the death of Italian DJ Michele Noschese, known as DJ Godzi, who died in June during a police intervention at his home following noise complaints. Authorities attributed his death to drug abuse.
“The extent of his intoxication was alarming,” Sendino said. He added that someone as familiar with Ibiza’s nightlife scene ending up in such a state only reinforces fears that new, unpredictable substances are circulating.
Hotels urge stronger action
The hotel federation stressed that the responsibility for drug-related incidents lies with law enforcement, not the hospitality sector. It is now calling on Spanish authorities to step up their response, including deploying more sniffer dogs across the island. “Something needs to change,” Sendino concluded, “before more lives are lost.”
UPDATE: Tragic death of British teen in Ibiza highlights ongoing “balconing” problem in the Balearic Islands