Search for Missing Hiker Formally Concludes
- Published in Soualiga News 7
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Island Governor Jonathan Johnson
SABA (THE BOTTOM) - The Public Entity of Saba announced on Thursday, May 21, 2026, that the search for the missing hiker has been formally concluded.
The Public Entity of Saba issued the following statement: "Over the past week, several teams have worked tirelessly to coordinate and carry out our search for Mr. Erik Matthijsen, who went missing while hiking on Wednesday May 13.
"He was last seen in the Well’s Bay area. Despite extensive and intense efforts, he has not been found.
"In consultation with the crisis team, the difficult decision to conclude the search for Erik has been made.
“This is not the outcome that any of us have wished for,” said Island Governor Jonathan Johnson. “Our thoughts and sympathy remain with Erik’s family, friends and colleagues and all those who know him. While the search as of today is concluded, we hope that in due time, there will be a final closure to this tragedy.”
"We also extend our gratitude to everyone involved in the search, including the USAR.NL team, the police department, fire department, Saba Conservation Foundation, Ministry of Defence, the Dutch Marines, Ministry of VWS, the fire department of Saint Martin, the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, the Ministry of Justice and Security and the National Crisis Center, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, the Recherche Samenwerkingsteam, Hanab Connectivity Solutions and all its subcontractors working on the Mt. Scenery Tower Project and all the local volunteers and partners.
"Out of consideration for Erik’s loved ones, we ask for your understanding and respect during this difficult time.
"If at any point in time, you or someone you know comes across anything related to or believed to be related to Erik Matthijsen, we urge you to reach out to the local police at 911 immediately."