Tributes to DJ Ryan Spiteri after he is found dead in car with woman

Tributes have been paid to well-known local DJ Ryan Spiteri following his sudden death on Tuesday.

Spiteri, best known for his Rewind show and previously as a ONE Radio and Vibe FM presenter, was one of two people found dead in a car in Marsascala on Tuesday evening. Police investigations are still ongoing, and a magisterial inquiry is under way.

As news of the death of the 47-year-old spread, friends and colleagues posted photos as well as messages of tribute and condolences. Many expressed “shock” and “disbelief” at the news of his sudden death. 

On Monday, Spiteri held an after-party in Valletta following the youths' march for the Madonna tal-Karmnu festa, which made his death all the more shocking for friends and followers. 

Many took to his last Facebook post, a video posted in the early hours of Tuesday morning, hours before he died, where he reflected that he was struggling with challenging thoughts and encouraged anyone going through a difficult time to not give up. 

In the post, he admitted that there were times in his life he may have hurt others, and he will never stop apologising for it. 

“My friends, if you are feeling these things and you believe you are at the final stage, go somewhere by the sea, even on your own, and remind yourself that when God closes one door, He opens a hundred more for you, whoever you are,” he added.

'I never imagined that would be our last conversation'

Matthew De Giorgio, owner of Gianpula Village, said he worked alongside Spiteri for over 16 years, and that he became part of the family at the Rabat nightlife mecca.

For the last couple of years, we spoke many times about how you were feeling. Every time I asked, you would tell me, “I’m fine, Matt.” I respected your words, but today my heart is left wondering if there was more I could have done," De Giorgio wrote.

"What makes this even harder is that only yesterday we were talking about the 10th October event, sharing ideas and discussing how we could make it even better, just like we always did. I never imagined that would be our last conversation."

He said he would remember Spiteri for his passion, professionalism, positivity and wanting to give his all for every event.

"You played a part in so many unforgettable nights at Gianpula, and for that I will always be grateful."

DJ and producer Cathy K Attard said Galea had attended her first event last March and took the microphone in his hands, which she said showed a “great sign of respect”.

One barber wrote that he was not saying goodbye to just a client, but a true friend.

“For the past seven years, it was always a pleasure having Ryan in my chair. What started as a barber-client relationship grew into a genuine friendship filled with conversations, laughs, and respect,” he wrote. 

“It’s hard to believe you’re gone. The shop won’t feel the same without you walking through the door. Thank you for your loyalty, your friendship, and for all the memories we shared over the years. You will always be remembered, and you will be deeply missed.”

A colleague said Spiteri was more than just a co-worker, but a true friend she had known for years. 

“So much laughter, phone calls and thousands of silly moments in the office. Your voice could be heard wherever you were in the building, and you were always ready to make us laugh in your own special way. I ask myself, Lord, why is life so cruel?”

Band Clubs pay respect

Numerous band clubs also paid respect to the beloved DJ, many expressing how Spiteri was a supporter of their association or would play at their events.

Għaqda Madonna tal-Grazzja Band San Mikiel Żabbar Ad 1883 took to social media on Wednesday morning to express its condolences to Spiteri, who was a supporter of the association. 

“We will always remember the beautiful moments we shared during our Żabbar feast marches.”

The president of the committee of the Birkirkara Duke of Connaught's Own Band Club paid respect to Spiteri and described him as one of the most "popular disc jockeys" in the country, and how he would often bring joy to the supporters of the association at the feast marches. 

Spiteri appeared in court in March on domestic violence charges; however, the case against him was withdrawn after his former partner told the court she no longer wished to proceed.