Mario Bacaj named as man killed in fall from Adelaide rooftop bar 2KW

A man who was killed when he fell from a popular rooftop bar in the city on Sunday has been remembered as a “happy, beautiful” person by teammates at his soccer club.

• Rooftop bar release statement after tragic fall

The teammates of a “happy, beautiful” young man have been left heartbroken after he fell to his death from a popular Adelaide rooftop bar, just hours after texting them to say he wasn’t feeling well.

Mario Bacaj, 28, was supposed to be on the field with the Adelaide Eagles Soccer Club on Sunday morning.

Instead, he messaged the team’s group chat about 10.15am, saying he was sick and wouldn’t make the match.

Later that day, his mates received some news that would shatter their hearts — Mario had tragically died after falling from the 2KW Bar and Restaurant on King William St about 4pm.

“It’s devastated everyone,” said one man connected to the club, who did not wish to be named.

“He’s Albanian, raised in Italy. He loved playing soccer. Just a happy, beautiful boy — like the most perfect boy in our community.”

“We played with him every weekend.”

Teammates have paid tribute to Mario Bacaj, 28, who tragically died after falling from a rooftop bar in Adelaide's CBD on Sunday, June 15.

Flowers outside 2KW where Mario Bacaj sadly died. Picture: Keryn Stevens

Mario had been living in Adelaide for several years, working and studying, and was just about to get his building licence.

“He was working, he was studying. Everything looked like it was running smoothly.

“He even helped out at his church. He had his whole life ahead of him.”

The day after his death, heartbroken teammates gathered at the footpath below 2KW to lay white flowers.

One card read: “Pushafsh në Paqe Mario” – Albanian for “Rest in peace Mario.”

“We’re all very close,” the man said.

“We had about 50 people down here. People are devastated. We just can’t believe it.”

Flowers outside 2KW where Mario Bacaj died. Picture: Keryn Stevens

Police and emergency services swarmed the area on Sunday afternoon, closing off the busy King William St and North Tce intersection for several hours as they investigated.

The venue was closed for the rest of the day.

A spokeswoman for 2KW Bar and Restaurant said they were “deeply saddened by the incident”.

It’s understood Mario had gone to the venue alone. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone. Support is available. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au.