Pregnant California Teacher Dies in Tragic Hiking Accident in Greece

Clara Thomann, a 33-year-old high school physics teacher from Santa Barbara, California, died tragically on December 23rd following a hiking accident in Plakias, Crete. Thomann, who was six months pregnant, was hiking with her partner, Elliott Finn, near the Preveli Monastery when she slipped and fell approximately 164 feet (50 meters) down a gorge.

Despite a challenging rescue effort involving 21 firefighters and rescue personnel, Thomann sustained severe injuries to her head and chest. She was later pronounced brain dead, and tragically, her unborn child also did not survive. Thomann's family traveled to Greece to be with her.

Remembered as a beloved teacher at Dos Pueblos High School, Thomann was known for her kindness, passion for science, and dedication to her students. Tributes poured in from colleagues and students alike, describing her as a positive influence who made learning enjoyable. Her principal, Bill Woodard, expressed the school's deep sorrow and offered support to the grieving school community.

Thomann's partner, Finn, shared on CaringBridge that they had been celebrating her life and creating memories in Greece prior to the accident. Her family has decided to donate her organs. A CaringBridge post by Veronica Katz highlighted Thomann's love for teaching and her family's motto of finding reasons to gather and celebrate, a sentiment they hope will be honored in her memory.