Body of Missing Hiker Johann Found in Crete’s Samaria Gorge

A Bell helicopter and a team of rescuers recovered the body of the unfortunate 21-year-old German hiker Johann on Saturday morning, March 15, 2025. The remains were located near the Xylokastro area after he went missing while exploring the Samaria Gorge a month prior. A team from the 3rd Emergency Medical Corps, accompanied by a firefighter from Chania, transported Johann’s body to Souda military airport before transferring it to Rethymno Hospital for forensic examination. The autopsy aims to clarify the exact cause of death, though initial reports suggest hypothermia and exhaustion. In a heartfelt message, Johann’s family expressed their gratitude to the six local climbers who discovered him and all volunteers involved in the search efforts. They confirmed that despite overcoming the challenging parts of the trail, Johann tragically fell along the path. His loss leaves an immense void in his family, friends, and colleagues’ lives, and they extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the rescue mission.