SABA — Authorities on Saba continued an intensive search Thursday for missing Dutch hiker Erik Matthijsen, who disappeared while hiking near Well’s Bay earlier this week.
Matthijsen, a visitor to the island and member of the Mount Scenery Tower Project team, was last seen Wednesday around 11:00 a.m. Officials described him as an experienced hiker.
Emergency services launched a large-scale search involving the Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF), Coast Guard, Marines, KPCN, BKCN, volunteers, and other crisis partners. Camera footage and trail investigations helped narrow the search area to the region between Middle Island and the Sulphur Mine Trail.
Ground teams searched all identified trails, including possible off-trail routes and viewpoints, while coastal and aerial searches were conducted using drones, a Coast Guard vessel, helicopter support, and a DASH patrol aircraft. Thermal imaging drones and handheld cameras are also being used during evening operations.
Authorities said no overnight ground searches will take place to ensure the safety of rescue personnel, though aerial thermal searches will continue throughout the night.
Island Governor Jonathan Johnson said search teams remain fully committed to locating Matthijsen and will resume ground operations Friday morning.
Officials urged the public not to enter trails within the active search zone or conduct independent searches, warning that doing so could interfere with rescue efforts and create additional safety risks. The Ladder Bay trail will be reopened friday morning for public use.
Anyone with information regarding Matthijsen’s whereabouts is asked to contact emergency services via 911.
