Search and rescue underway for missing American hiker on Greek island

A search and rescue operation is underway for a 59-year-old American man who was reported missing Tuesday after failing to return from a hike on a Greek island.

Former Los Angeles Sheriff's Department deputy Albert Calibet failed to return from a hike on the Greek island of Amorgos amid extreme heat, with temperatures topping 100 degrees Fahrenheit. He was hiking from Aegiali to Katapola, which takes about four hours.

Calibet reportedly started his hike at 7 a.m. local time on Tuesday and was last seen at 11 a.m. by walkers he encountered on a trail, according to Hellenic police.

A woman who runs a small refreshment stand told police she saw him around 11 a.m. Tuesday, providing him with water and refreshments.

He was supposed to meet a friend between noon and 1 p.m. at the end of a path, but Calibet never made it to the meeting point, Hellenic police said.

The friend tried to call Calibet on his phone, but there was no answer, so the friend reported him missing to local authorities.

Calibet is said to have visited the island several times and is very familiar with the trail and the area.

A Hellenic Firefighter helicopter and a drone are helping to reach Calibet in ravines and areas inaccessible on foot, while rescue teams have already walked the trail twice, according to police.

Calibet has been a member of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department since 1998 and continues to be employed part-time since his retirement in 2018, according to the department.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Calibet’s family and friends and we hope to bring him home safe and sound,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. “We are actively working with several agencies overseas to provide assistance in the search for MP Calibet. Calibet and will use every resource we have to bring him back to those who love him.”