20-year-old Johann Williams, missing since 13 February near Samaria Gorge, found dead. Update from Friday 14 March 2025
Update from Friday 14 March: Johann Williams found dead
In a heartbreaking conclusion to the weeks-long search, authorities have confirmed that Johann Williams, the 21-year-old German tourist who went missing on February 13, 2025, has been found deceased in the Samaria Gorge area.
The young man was found dead today on Friday morning in a difficult and dangerous place by climbers on Mount Gigilo (Gingalos).
Johann Williams crossed the closed Samaria Gorge, reached Agia Roumeli and moved from there towards the mountain range, following the path to the old Turkish castle above Agia Roumeli about a month ago.
When he passed it, he was trapped and called his sister to send her a message that he had found a way out. The location was near ‘Kandili t’ Armi’, an area with a steep slope.
Williams disappeared after attempting to summit the challenging 2,000-meter-high Gingalos mountain near the Omalos plateau. His disappearance prompted an extensive search operation involving police, fire department, and mountain rescue teams across the rugged White Mountains terrain.
According to the climbers, the place where the 21-year-old was found was challenging, but comparatively easier compared to other, more difficult places on the route that he had previously successfully passed.
The young man with blue eyes and long brown hair had been the subject of a missing alert issued on February 18, with search efforts intensifying as days passed without contact.
This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of Crete’s beautiful but challenging mountainous landscapes, especially during winter months when weather conditions can change rapidly.
Hiking Safety Reminder:
If you’re planning to explore Crete’s gorges and mountains, always inform someone of your route, carry appropriate equipment, check weather forecasts, and consider hiring a local guide for challenging trails.
Our deepest condolences go out to Johann’s family and friends during this difficult time.
For more information about safe hiking practices in Crete or updates on this story, please see our dedicated travel safety section: Hiking on Crete.
Update from Monday 3 March: Search temporarily cancelled
On Sunday, 2nd March, ongoing search efforts took place near Gigilos, west of Samaria, for 20-year-old Johann Williams, a German national who went missing during a hiking trip on 13th February.
Rescue teams hired by his family continued their work despite challenging weather conditions that hampered visibility due to low clouds and fog, rather than snow or cold temperatures.
Yesterday, the rescue team once again travelled towards the Alfchenas saddle and flew the drone over Gigilos and between Gigilos and Volakias. Unfortunately, it was again not possible to fly the drone over Johann’s last location and the route between this and the saddle.
They have really tried everything in the last two weeks and never gave up until the end, but the weather has not co-operated with the search and is not expected to improve in the next few days. The family and rescuers are completely exhausted and feel burnt out.
His family have decided to return to Germany temporarily, but are still endeavouring to find Johann. They expressed their exhaustion and sadness after weeks of searching and their frustration that the weather has not co-operated.
Plans are in place to return to Crete with the intention of resuming search efforts, potentially employing drones and helicopters when conditions improve.
The family has also created a page, Find Johann Williams, to assist in the search and raised funds to support ongoing efforts.
The Family of 21-Year-Old: “Our Search Will Only End When We Find Johann”
Update from Wednesday, February 26: As if he disappeared from the face of the earth
The search for the 20-year-old Johann Williams from Germany has proven to be challenging, despite extensive efforts by the authorities.
These efforts have centred around the White Mountains, where no significant leads have emerged so far. Johann’s family has been actively involved in the search efforts in Crete and the Omalos region, supporting teams in any way possible.
In addition to local resources, the family arranged for a small helicopter to assist from Italy, as well as a six-person team from Luxembourg who brought drones equipped with high-resolution cameras to aid in locating Johan.
Reports from local news sources indicate that these efforts have been critical in attempting to uncover more information about his whereabouts.
The search area encompasses three mountains behind Gigilo: Volakia, Psiristra, and a stretch where Johan was last tracked.
The six-person team from Luxembourg has been using their drones to search the terrain. These drones are capable of detecting even faint traces on the ground or snow, enhancing the chances of finding Johan.
Despite their support, the weather conditions have complicated the search.
Poor visibility due to heavy fog hindered the effectiveness of the small helicopter, which had flown into the area to assist.
Stauros Badogiannis, the president of the Chania Mountaineering Club, discussed the challenges faced with the foreign team and highlighted how the mountainous landscape differs from what might be expected based on maps or Google images.
He explained that the area does not resemble the Alps; rather, it shares more in common with the rugged terrain of Afghanistan.
While GPS and mobile maps may indicate that certain sections are accessible, actual conditions can be far more treacherous. In current weather, snow and icy winds complicate navigation, and the steep slopes present further hazards.
‘I made it clear to them that our mountains are something special and have nothing to do with what they see on the map on their mobile phone or on Google Maps, for example. The hiking apps show that an area is accessible because someone has walked through it at some point. But the conditions are very different, these days there is snow and icy winds, while the mountains are very high in these places.
Mr Badogiannis was also pessimistic about the possibility of him being found alive: ‘I think the chances of him being found alive are very slim.’
However, the President of the Mountaineering Association of Chania pointed out that rescue in Greece is still in its infancy and that the implementation of the decision to set up rescue helicopter bases in Crete as well must be urgently pursued. After all, if there is a small and flexible helicopter nearby that can immediately be at the spot where the last trace of a hiker or climber in distress has been located, the chances of rescue are maximised.
Stauros Badogiannis, the president of the Chania Mountaineering Club:
Reports indicate that Johann traversed the Gorge of Samaria and reached Agia Roumeli, where he then headed towards the mountain range.
The 20-year-old was only wearing running shoes and didn’t even have a jacket with him, just a simple T-shirt. As he was planning to return the same day, he didn’t have a sleeping bag with him either. ‘He had experience of running on marked trails, but not in the local mountains,’ explains the president of the Chania Mountaineering Association.
His last known location suggests he followed a path leading to a height above Agia Roumeli before attempting to make his way to a higher, smaller height.
After passing the initial height, he encountered difficulties and reached out to his sister for help. Following this, he sent her a message indicating that he had found a way out.
This communication was near “Kandili t’ Arme,” an area known for its steep inclines. At this point, his signal reached the phone tower from Gavdos. However, three transmitter masts are required for precise localisation.
The terrain is particularly risky, with substantial drops and unpredictable weather, making the search more complex. Badogiannis reiterated the importance of proper preparation when navigating such challenging landscapes, emphasising the unique risks they present to those unfamiliar with the local environment.
The involvement of Johann’s family has been crucial throughout the search process.
Their dedication to finding him has helped rally support from various local and international organisations.
The local authorities and the Chania Mountaineering Club continue to collaborate with volunteer teams to maximise their search efforts. For every new piece of equipment or personnel brought into the field, the hope remains that a breakthrough will be made in locating Johan.
Volunteer efforts encompass a wide range of activities, from on-ground search missions to aerial surveillance using modern technology.
Each team member plays a vital role in creating a comprehensive search strategy aimed at covering every possible area where Johan could potentially be found.
In addition to the logistical challenges of the operation, the emotional strain on Johann’s family is significant.
People who are not familiar with the terrain would not be able to help with the search, as there is a lot of rubble and the paths are sometimes very difficult to recognise. You definitely need a good GPS device (navigation device) to get through the area.
The Greek authorities have deployed experts from the fire brigade, police and search and rescue service, among others. Several teams are searching for Johann at the same time.
However, the search for missing persons in Greece is normally stopped after twelve days.
Update from Tuesday, February 25
The weather conditions in the mountainous region of Chania have led to the suspension of search efforts for a 21-year-old German tourist who has been missing since Thursday, 14 February.
Given the dense fog and heavy rainfall, authorities have decided that it is not safe to continue the search at this time.
Rescue teams including firefighters from Chania, Kissamos, and Vrises, alongside the Emergency Response Unit from Heraklion, deployed dogs and drones early in the morning.
They gathered at the entrance of the Samaria Gorge, aiming to search the area where the young man, Johann Williams, was last detected.
Unfortunately, due to the deteriorating weather conditions, plans for the day changed significantly.
On Monday, a major operation was conducted; however, the results were not fruitful. The teams are prepared to resume their efforts as soon as the weather improves.
Reports indicate that a firefighter and an experienced climber from the Chania Mountaineering Club spent the night in a refuge, known as a mitato, located in the White Mountains, to continue their search efforts the following day before returning to the Omalos area.
Moreover, a group of experienced rescuers from Luxembourg has joined the search operations.
They have embarked on a venture and stayed overnight in the Tripiti Gorge, broadening the search as much as possible.
Seasoned rescuers have described the White Mountains as vast and complex, making the search akin to locating a needle in a haystack within the Omalos Plateau.
The ongoing challenges and difficulties reflect the complex nature of terrain and adverse weather.
As the situation unfolds, hopes remain that the improvements in weather will enable teams to continue their crucial work.
Despite the setbacks, the commitment of multiple agencies highlights the community’s determination to assist in this distressing search for Johann Williams.
Update from Monday, February 24
The family of Johann, a 20-year-old missing in the mountains of Crete, are working tirelessly to find him.
Following consultation with a family member who contacted me after my article yesterday, I would like to add the following information:
‘We need urgent help – Johann Williams has been missing since Thursday 13.02.25. We are trying to find him ourselves as the police are not being as helpful as they could be. At the moment we are looking for a helicopter – which we are paying for.
Could you also help us with: Dogs, drones and people for the search.’
Left photo: The sniffer dog has picked up a scent below the steep face on the right-hand side of the picture. Screenshot: The route Johann wanted to take.
Instagram: Find Johann Williams
Today, Monday, 24.02.2025, has been well organized. Three teams will set off from the Greek side: Two EMAK teams, each with an area search dog, and the fire department. In addition, two large and one small drone will be sent out from a nearby mountain to reach areas that could not previously be detected from the parking lot.
In addition, we were able to privately organize a helicopter with a professional crew, another professional drone and the HRT (Hellenic Rescue Team). The HRT will also have an area search dog with them. It is not yet clear whether the dog will accompany the fire department or be dropped off by the helicopter with a team. Rescue International are also making a huge contribution to the search by assisting with planning, coordination and mapping and have sent a dog expert to the site who will also be there tomorrow.
We are immensely grateful for all the teams involved in the search and are hopeful for today.
The family of Johann, a 20-year-old who went missing in the Crete mountains, is working tirelessly to locate him. Their efforts are complicated due to the high costs associated with search operations. Financial contributions are needed for various expenses, such as hiring helicopters for aerial searches and maintaining ground teams.
Key Financial Needs:
- Helicopter Searches: Essential for covering larger areas quickly.
- Ground Teams: Organised to comb through difficult terrain.
- Legal Fees: Necessary for any formal procedures involved in the search.
- Potential Repatriation: Covering costs if Johann is found.
The family emphasizes that every donation, regardless of size, is crucial in this dark time, bringing them closer to finding Johann. This commitment to leaving no stone unturned underlines the urgency of their situation. As inclement weather may hinder efforts, the need to intensify the search is more critical than ever.
Support can be extended through sharing their fundraising page or by making direct donations. For those wishing to assist, visit the fundraiser for Johann. Their heartfelt gratitude is extended to everyone assisting in this challenging ordeal.
Fundraising campaign for Johann Williams
Message from Johann’s family after the search operation on Monday evening:
Now evening has arrived, and we are all utterly exhausted. The weather was not as good as we had hoped, with the mountains often shrouded in clouds. As a result, the helicopter was only able to cover a small part of the area. Fortunately, all mountain rescuers are safe. Except for two firefighters who are staying overnight in a shepherd’s hut to continue the search tomorrow, all emergency personnel have returned. So far, the analysis of both drone and helicopter footage has not provided any clues to Johann’s whereabouts. To be honest, we had higher hopes for the day and are disappointed that Johann was not found. Tomorrow, most likely only the two overnighting rescuers will continue searching on foot, and possibly the HRT with an area search dog. The weather forecast for tomorrow is poor, but we still plan to deploy the helicopter if a weather window allows it. Our goal is to drop off a drone operator on the south side of Volakias, who can use the drone to scan areas that have not yet been covered. Thank you to everyone who helped today despite the fog, cold, and challenging terrain! You are our beacons of hope!
Johann Williams is an experienced trail runner
Johann Williams, a 20-year-old from Heidelberg, has been missing on the Greek island of Crete since 13 February 2025. He embarked on a trail run in the mountainous region but has not been heard from since sending his last location to his sister Teresa. The concerns for his well-being have escalated as each day passes without news.
Despite the lack of contact, there remains a slight glimmer of hope for Johann’s survival. A survival expert consulted by the family indicated that if Johann did not sustain head or back injuries, there is still a chance he could be alive. This assessment, however, comes with the weight of reality, as the probability of his survival diminishes with time.
Family’s Determination
Johann’s family has been deeply involved in the search efforts, determined to bring him home. Teresa recently updated the public on their situation, expressing that the financial burdens of the search are considerable. The family has sought international assistance, but their request has yet to be approved, forcing them to cover costs themselves.
To aid in the search, they have arranged for a helicopter to be deployed, covering an estimated expense of €20,000 for just four hours of operation. Additionally, they are using private individuals with drones and search dogs, necessitating funding for travel and equipment. In their plea for donations, they launched a campaign called “Find Johann Alive” on GoFundMe, which has already raised a significant amount to support the search.
Search Operations
As the search continues, authorities have engaged various resources. A dog recently indicated a potential lead, drawing attention to a steep area that could pose challenges. Drones are set to enhance the search efforts by surveying difficult terrain more effectively.
Johann was reported to be an experienced trail runner, regularly going on long-distance runs in the mountains. He sends periodic updates to his family during his outings, which heightens concerns as his last messages were concerning. His most recent communication was time-stamped just before he vanished without a trace.
Possible Misunderstandings
In light of the ongoing search efforts, the family has addressed circulating misinformation online. They clarified that Johann is a skilled trail runner who carefully planned his routes. The family has detailed his experience and described a careful approach to his adventures. Their statement emphasises the need to share accurate information to facilitate the search effectively.
Survival Skills and Techniques
Johann’s knowledge of outdoor skills and wilderness survival techniques positions him favourably should he have encountered difficulties. Equipped with a Coros Pace 3 running watch, Johann had the capability to track his locations, adding to the family’s ability to trace his movements through stored route data.
His planned route included descending the Samaria Gorge and navigating trails surrounding the peaks of Gigilos and Volakios. A witness reported seeing Johann at the southern entrance of the gorge, adding affirmation to his trail route. Despite efforts to locate him using technology, such as his Samsung phone or the activation of the car key, these attempts have yet to yield results.
The local rescue teams have advised that there are areas within the terrain that may be too hazardous to traverse. Johann’s last known position aligns closely with these perilous spots, which raises concerns for the family’s understanding of his circumstances.
Emotional Support and Community Response
Johann’s family has received overwhelming emotional support from the community. Friends and family have been rallying to assist in the search, demonstrating the bonds of friendship and love during times of crisis. The public response has included not only financial donations but also offers of physical support to participate in search efforts.
The atmosphere surrounding the search efforts has been heavy with anticipation and concern. As Johann’s family perseveres in their search, the desire to find him safe remains strong. The outpouring of goodwill from the community reinforces the notion that he is not alone in this struggle.
The Search Continues
As of 23 February 2025, search teams remain active in their quest to locate Johann. While the days progress, the resolve of his family and supporters signifies the profound efforts being made. Acknowledging the skills he possesses, they remain hopeful that his survival instincts will guide him through these trying circumstances.
Despite the challenges presented, the commitment to find Johann remains unyielded. The family draws upon every resource available, uplifting the spirit of determination. With each passing moment, there is an enduring sense that they will continue searching until he is found.
Johann’s situation illustrates the complexities of wilderness survival and the realities of outdoor adventure. Those involved reflect on techniques acquired from survival training that may aid in similar situations. It becomes imperative to recognise the importance of preparation, knowledge, and community effort in addressing unforeseen circumstances in the great outdoors.
Update: 21-year-old German tourist still missing at the Samaria Gorge
The search efforts in Chania continue for the 21-year-old German tourist, Johann Wolfgang Williams, who went missing in the Samaria Gorge.
The local authorities have faced challenges due to difficult weather conditions, which have hindered their operations. They are making every effort to resume searches when the conditions improve.
Despite local police and fire services conducting initial searches, Johann’s family has felt the need to request an international appeal for assistance.
This appeal has not yet been granted, which has resulted in additional frustration for them. Meanwhile, family members have been proactive in seeking alternative support.
To sustain ongoing operations, Johann’s family has taken the initiative to fund a team that includes searchers, drone operators, and volunteers using trained dogs for tracking.
They have also arranged for a helicopter to aid in the search, although the financial burden has been significant. The family is seeking donations to help cover these unexpected costs.
Ongoing Search Efforts
The volunteer groups and search teams are not allowing the difficult circumstances to stop their progress. They have set up multiple operations to search rugged terrains and aerial routes.
The involvement of hiking clubs in Chania, such as the Chania Mountaineering Club, shows community solidarity as they have started operations heading towards the Gkigkilos peak, an area near where Johann was last seen.
The local fire department has stated that they will resume their search efforts once weather conditions become favourable. Until then, volunteer efforts are paramount, and updates about various activities remain critical for keeping the search alive.
Family’s Plea for Assistance
Johann’s family has issued a statement expressing their concerns about the costs of the ongoing search.
They have highlighted that they must manage expenses related to hiring professionals and equipment from abroad, which has become a financial strain.
They have directly engaged with the local police to expedite the request for international assistance.
The family met with the police commander to push for the request to be processed quickly.
They encountered resistance, but ultimately their written request was signed off and forwarded to the higher authorities in Chania. They hope this will facilitate aid from international search teams.
Cost of Search Operations
The family has revealed that funding private search operations carries considerable financial implications.
For instance, they disclosed that engaging a helicopter for four hours of search time costs around €20,000.
This financial strain includes expenses for travel, accommodation, and operational costs for private dog teams and drone operators who offer their support.
The family is finding ways to cover these costs with the support of the community and donations.
They have reached out on social media and other platforms to gather financial and logistical help, emphasising the importance of keeping the search ongoing and efficient.
Engaged Community Support
The incident has drawn attention across social channels, with many locals and tourists showing concern for Johann’s disappearance.
The community engagement serves as a beacon of hope for the family, as many individuals volunteer their time and resources. They contribute both physically by joining the search and financially by offering donations.
Support has also come from charity organisations, like the Smile of the Child, which provides assistance in locating missing persons.
Even though the official channels for assistance can be slow, the community has stepped in with the necessary support where possible.
Police and Emergency Rescue Operations
Local law enforcement and emergency services are playing a crucial role in the search operations. Firefighters and the Coast Guard have previously combed through the surrounding areas, checking both land and sea for any signs of Johann.
The police have coordinated their search strategies with updates from Johann’s family to ensure that search operations are directed effectively.
Their continuous efforts in the difficult conditions further underline their commitment to finding Johann and providing his family with closure.
Regular meetings between the police department and family representatives ensure everyone is aligned on strategies and any possible developments. Clear communication between these parties is vital in creating a targeted approach to the search efforts.
Search Tools and Technology
Advanced technology, such as drones, has become an essential part of the search strategy.
Drones allow search teams to cover extensive areas more effectively and locate any signs of movement or distress from above.
The deployment of trained dogs is another key aspect, as they possess particular skills in pinpointing scents that humans may miss.
These tools have supplemented traditional search methods, increasing the chances of discovering useful leads. The combination of human resources, technology, and broad community support aids in keeping the search as thorough as possible while facing relentless conditions.
Challenges Faced During the Search
The search for Johann has not come without its difficulties.
Frequent rain, strong winds, and treacherous terrain have made it challenging for both professionals and volunteers.
The location, being mountainous and rugged, poses additional risks, especially for inexperienced individuals engaging in search efforts in bad weather.
The family has had to continuously remind volunteers of safety precautions to ensure no one else comes to harm during these search missions. Awareness of the environment is crucial, and all involved must prioritise safety above all else.
Conclusion
The unfolding situation surrounding the search for Johann Wolfgang Williams has highlighted resilience among community members and families in the face of adversity.
It showcases the power of collaboration among local authorities, volunteers, and communities willing to help those in distress.
Despite the setbacks, both the family and search teams remain hopeful that Johann will be located soon.
Further progress will be made in the search as conditions improve and more support becomes available.
Until then, the mission continues, driven by love and determination among all those involved.
Suicide mission?
The 21-year-old German’s hike is actually unbelievable and, in my eyes, borders on a suicide mission. To walk alone and in winter through the Samaria Gorge, which is already closed for safety reasons, to climb a mountain with up to two metres of snow on it and then make his way back in the dark!
Already missing for ten days and with the current icy temperatures, it is to be feared that Johann Wolfgang Williams has probably paid for this insane action with his life.
Significant Presence of Police and Fire Services
There is a strong and growing presence of police and fire service personnel as the search continues for the missing 21-year-old. His whereabouts remain unknown, with no concrete leads regarding his trail or potential location.
Recent information states that a team from the Emergency Response Unit (EMAK), along with firefighters from Chania, is deploying to the area to bolster the search efforts.
Due to the lack of specific clues, search operations are being conducted based on assumptions about possible routes he might have taken.
The search for the missing German tourist was initiated by the local police, fire services, the Coast Guard, and forestry officials from Chania.
The disappearance was reported to the police on Saturday evening by the owner of a car rental agency from which he had leased a vehicle, intending to visit the Omalos Plateau.
As dawn broke on Sunday, authorities commenced their search to locate the young man.
Teams comprising officers from the Chania Crime Department, firefighters from the Chania Fire Station, and forest rangers began combing the area.
Efforts were also made along the coastal front near Agia Roumeli, exploring the possibility that the tourist had reached the park’s exit and arrived at the seaside village.
The tourist had been on holiday in Chania and was staying at a hotel. Last Thursday, he travelled by rented car to the Xyloskalo of Omalos, where he left the vehicle before presumably entering the national park for a hike.
When the car rental owner noticed that the young man had not returned as planned, attempts to reach him failed due to a lack of mobile signal.
However, the Samaria Gorge is actually closed at this time of year!
By 8 PM on Saturday, the owner reported the disappearance to the Chania police.
Search teams have been scouring the Samaria National Park meticulously, from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli.
Weather conditions during this time in the broader Omalos area and the southern part of the gorge towards Agia Roumeli have not been favourable, with rain and low temperatures impeding their efforts.
Final Known Location of the 21-Year-Old German
The last confirmed sighting of the 21-year-old German tourist occurred before he began his hike into the Samaria Gorge. He was noted to have arrived at Xyloskalo, where he parked his rented vehicle.
After leaving the car, he ventured into the national park, seeking adventure and natural beauty.
As he explored the area, no further information has surfaced regarding his movements. The absence of a precise route or witness accounts creates difficulties for the authorities attempting to trace his steps.
Search operations are increasingly dependent on speculation about his potential pathways through the vast terrain of the gorge.
Authorities have mobilised significant resources to this operation, including search and rescue teams experienced in navigating these challenging natural landscapes.
The involvement of trained professionals highlights the urgency and seriousness of the undertaking, as concerns for the tourist’s safety grow.
Despite the extensive search efforts, his fate remains uncertain, drawing attention to the inherent risks associated with wilderness exploration.
As investigations continue, the community and his family await hopeful updates regarding his whereabouts.
The combination of terrain difficulties, adverse weather conditions, and the elapsed time since his disappearance complicates their efforts significantly.
In a post that is doing the rounds on the Internet, his sister Teresa asks anyone who has information about her brother’s disappearance.
In detail it says:
Hello, my name is Teresa and I am looking for my brother Johann Williams. He has been missing since Thursday afternoon. The police, fire brigade and mountain rescue service are already searching for him. Today is the fifth day he has been missing, so it is extremely important to find him as soon as possible. As the area where he may be located is quite large, any additional help in the search is a great help. The last known whereabouts of Johanns is as follows:
https://osmand.net/map?pin=35.27245,23.93997#15/35.27245/23.93997
Geo: 35.27245,23.93997?z=15
He sent me this location at 5:34pm and he told me he was on his way up. I assume he meant he was on his way to the summit of Mount Gingalos. Two hours later, at 7.40pm, he told me everything was fine. He may have been on the summit of Mount Gingalos at that time. Maybe something happened to him on the way back to the car park. I tried to follow the routes he could have taken, using the same app he uses to prepare his routes.
Sure hope he is found safe n well.prayers from the emerald isle