Athens, Greece – An American tourist was tragically discovered deceased near the picturesque Greek island of Corfu over the weekend, according to local reports. This incident marks the latest in a series of alarming occurrences involving tourists in this popular island destination. The man was found in the sea by another tourist near the old port of Mathraki, sparking immediate police involvement, as reported by AFP and local media.
The American tourist, who had been reported missing since Thursday, was last seen alive Tuesday at a local cafe in the company of two female tourists who have since left the island, noted The Associated Press. Details about the victim, including name and hometown, were not immediately disclosed, as per Athens News Agency sources cited by AFP.
Mathraki, a remote island with a mere population of 100, is characterized by lush wooded surroundings and covers an area of 1.2 square miles. Situated west of the renowned Corfu Island, Mathraki became the unfortunate backdrop for the American tourist’s tragic death, marking the third such incident involving tourists in Greece’s island territories in recent days.
Noted British TV personality and author, Dr. Michael Mosley, was discovered deceased on Symi Island the previous week, with a coroner determining his demise shortly after embarking on a challenging hike across rocky terrain. Symi, known for its proximity to the Turkish coast, witnessed this heartbreaking event. Additionally, a Dutch tourist was found dead on Samos Island on Saturday, under tragic circumstances involving extreme heat and challenging hiking conditions.
Amidst these distressing events, authorities continue their search for multiple individuals reported missing on various Greek islands. Notably, the ongoing quest for a missing American and others, including 59-year-old Albert Calibet from Hermosa Beach, California, underscores the urgency and complexity of search and rescue efforts in the region.
Furthermore, concerns mount as two French tourists, aged 73 and 64, were reported missing on the secluded Sikinos Island, amplifying fears and drawing attention to safety measures for tourists exploring lesser-known Greek island destinations. The incidents serve as a poignant reminder of the risks and unpredictability associated with travel, prompting heightened vigilance and precaution among tourists and authorities alike.