A murder mystery that haunted Crete for nearly 20 years may finally be solved, after a British man allegedly confessed to the 2005 killing of fellow UK tourist Steven Cook in the resort town of Malia.

Steven Cook, then 20 years old, disappeared on the first night of his holiday in September 2005. After a night out with friends, he was last seen leaving a bar alone, asking for directions to his hotel—but he walked in the wrong direction and vanished.

For over a decade, his fate remained unknown. Then in 2017, workers near a cemetery in Malia discovered a human skeleton in an abandoned well, along with Steven’s camera and remnants of his clothing. Despite the discovery, the circumstances of his death remained a mystery—until now.

Emotional Confession Reopens Case

According to UK media reports, the breakthrough came after the ex-wife of a 38-year-old British man contacted authorities. She claimed that during a moment of emotional distress in 2017, her ex-husband confessed to killing Steven Cook.

In her email to British police, the woman said the man told her he had gotten into an altercation with an intoxicated young tourist in Malia in 2005. He admitted to striking the man on the head, causing his death, and later disposing of the body in a well. She also said he broke down emotionally during the confession and threatened to take his own life.

Denial and Ongoing Investigation

While the man now denies any involvement, Greek and British authorities are working together to investigate the claims. Greek prosecutors and UK police are examining the email and other evidence to determine whether charges can be brought.

The Cook family has been informed of the latest developments, though they fear the case could be dropped if no progress is made by September.

Steven’s disappearance had captured international attention and sparked widespread appeals over the years, with his family never giving up hope for answers.