American tourist found dead on small Greek island. 3 more missing

ATHENS, Greece — In a tragic turn of events, the lifeless body of an American tourist was discovered on the secluded Greek island of Mathraki on Sunday. This incident adds to a growing list of concerning occurrences involving tourists in Greece this summer, as authorities continue to search for three other missing individuals on separate islands.

The deceased American, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, was found by another vacationer on a rocky, less-traversed stretch of shoreline near Mathraki's ancient port. The man had been reported missing since Thursday by his Greek-American host, who raised the alarm after returning home to find his house door open, lights and air conditioning on, and his guest missing along with his travel documents.

Mathraki, the southernmost and smallest of the Diapontian Islands, is known for its lush green landscape, scenic hiking trails, and virgin beaches. With a population of around 100 people and an area of approximately 3.5 square kilometers, the island remains largely unspoiled by mass tourism. Accessible only by boat, Mathraki offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking isolation and privacy.

The American tourist was last seen on Tuesday at a local taverna in the company of two female tourists who had since departed the island. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation, with a coroner expected to arrive on Mathraki to conduct a preliminary examination before the body is transported to Corfu for an autopsy.

This incident is part of a troubling pattern of tourist disappearances and fatalities in Greece. On Saturday, the body of a 74-year-old Dutch tourist was found in a ravine on the island of Samos. The Dutchman had been missing for a week, last seen struggling to walk in the intense heat. Similarly, British TV personality Dr. Michael Mosley was found dead on the island of Symi last Sunday, having succumbed to the challenging terrain and scorching temperatures during a solo hike.

Authorities are also searching for three other missing tourists. Albert Calibet, a 59-year-old retired Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputy, has been missing since Tuesday on the island of Amorgos. Calibet, who holds dual citizenship in France and the United States, was last seen embarking on a solo hike in extremely hot conditions. His family and friends have traveled to Greece to assist in the search efforts.

Two French tourists, aged 73 and 64, are also missing on the Cyclades island of Sikinos. The women, who were staying in different hotels, left their accommodations to meet on Friday but have not been seen since. The search for them involves volunteers, firefighters, and a police team from the nearby island of Ios.

The recent spate of incidents has raised concerns among travelers and authorities alike. Greek officials have emphasized the importance of staying informed and vigilant while exploring unfamiliar destinations, particularly during the current heatwave. Temperatures across Greece have soared, with some areas experiencing highs of nearly 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit). The extreme heat has led to closures of popular tourist sites, including the Acropolis in Athens, due to reports of people fainting while waiting in line.

The U.S. State Department has acknowledged the reports of Calibet's disappearance and expressed their intention to collaborate with local authorities in their search efforts. Meanwhile, Greek authorities continue to urge tourists to prioritize their safety and report any suspicious incidents.

As the investigation into the American tourist's death on Mathraki unfolds, the island's tight-knit community remains in shock. The serene and picturesque setting of Mathraki, typically a haven for those seeking peace and solitude, has been overshadowed by this tragic event. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers that can arise even in the most idyllic of locations.