Footballer dies in Ibiza hotel fall while locked out
- John McKenna, a young footballer, fell from a hotel balcony in Ibiza while trying to access his locked room.
- A post-mortem revealed the presence of alcohol and drugs in his system, which likely affected his coordination.
- His tragic death led to community tributes, including the planting of 22 trees in his memory.
John McKenna, a 22-year-old footballer, tragically died after falling from a hotel balcony in Ibiza while attempting to access his locked room. The incident occurred after he had breakfast and found his apartment door locked, unable to wake his friend. In a desperate attempt to get back inside, he climbed onto an adjoining balcony but fell during the jump, resulting in a fatal head injury. Witnesses reported seeing him jump, and despite immediate assistance, he was pronounced dead at the scene. An inquest revealed that McKenna had alcohol, ketamine, MDMA, and cocaine in his system, which likely impaired his coordination and judgment. The coroner noted that the balcony railing was easily overcome, contributing to the accident. A post-mortem examination confirmed a complex skull fracture and brain injury as the cause of death. McKenna was remembered fondly by his community and teammates, with a minute's silence held in his honor at Carlisle United. His mother described him as a genuine person who brought joy to those around him. In memory of his life, 22 trees were planted at Scotby FC, one for each year he lived. The incident highlights the risks associated with substance use and the tragic consequences that can arise from seemingly innocuous decisions. McKenna's story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of loss on friends and family.