Recent Tourist Deaths in Crete

Greek authorities reported on Monday the tragic discovery of the body of a missing 67-year-old German man near the challenging Tripiti Gorge on the picturesque island of Crete. This incident adds to a series of fatal accidents involving tourists engaging in demanding hikes during the scorching heat.

At least 10 tourists have gone missing or lost their lives this year under similar circumstances, as confirmed by Greek authorities. The country has been facing unseasonably early heat waves, with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) in many regions for consecutive days.

The man’s remains were found in “rugged and inaccessible terrain” close to the Tripiti Gorge in southwestern Crete, as stated by the fire service in a release. A drone initially spotted the body on Sunday evening, and despite deploying a helicopter, it took several hours for rescuers to reach the location.

The identity of the deceased individual and the cause of death have not been disclosed as of Monday.

According to Constantina Dimoglidou, a police spokeswoman, the man had contacted his wife on early Sunday afternoon, expressing that he had depleted his water supply and was feeling unwell. Although unaware of his precise whereabouts, authorities managed to track his cellphone signal.

The trek through Tripiti Gorge is known for its challenging nature, usually attracting experienced hikers, Ms. Dimoglidou noted.

This recent occurrence follows a series of tourist fatalities within the past month. An 80-year-old Belgian man, a Dutch man, and a 70-year-old Frenchwoman all met tragic ends while partaking in separate hiking excursions on Crete.