“She Was All Bones”: Body of 59-Year-Old Tourist Found on Remote Greek Beach

Tragic Discovery: Missing Glasgow Mother Found Dead in Greece

A mother from Glasgow, Michele Bourda, 59, who went missing while vacationing in Greece, has been found dead. Greek authorities confirmed that her body was discovered on the small private island of Fidonisi, about 40 kilometers from Ofrinio Beach, where she was last seen.

Michele disappeared over a month ago while on holiday with her husband, Chris Bourda, who is of Greek origin and works as a pharmacist. Surveillance footage from a nearby café showed the couple together earlier on the day of her disappearance, August 1. Chris had fallen asleep on a sun lounger at Ofrinio Beach, and when he awoke, Michele was gone, leaving behind her personal belongings, including a towel, medication, and bag.

Search Efforts and Recovery
A large-scale search operation ensued, initially focusing on the sea. Coastguards, fishing vessels, and private boats scoured the area, while authorities later expanded efforts inland with sniffer dogs and drones from Athens. Despite these extensive efforts, Michele remained missing until the crew of a passing yacht discovered her body on Fidonisi.

Authorities suspect that Michele drowned and that sea currents carried her body to the shore. Identification was difficult due to the body’s condition, described as “all bones,” with the head missing. A formal autopsy is pending to confirm the exact cause of death.

Family Reaction
Chris Bourda expressed profound grief and criticized the authorities for what he described as a delayed response during the initial search. “It shouldn’t take three hours to file a missing persons report before a search begins,” he said. He recalled their last moments together, including swimming despite windy weather and enjoying crepes before Michele intended to rest.

Michele had previously struggled with depression and anxiety, though Chris noted she had recently appeared stable and was looking forward to their trip. The couple shared decades together and had a daughter, making the loss especially devastating.

The Greek police investigation remains ongoing, and the British Foreign Office is involved. Michele Bourda’s family and friends are now coming to terms with the tragic conclusion of weeks of uncertainty.

Our deepest condolences go out to Michele’s loved ones during this profoundly difficult time.