Father dies
Paul Cantlie passes away at the age of 81 from penumonia-related complications. He was brought up in Nanking until the Japanese invasion during the second world war, and his father was said to have designed much of the railway infrastructure throughout China. Cantlie later served as a governor of Southampton General hospital. A statement says that the family had tried to contact John in the last few days before the death was made public. His family:
[He will be] remembered by many for his fortitude, quiet courage, wry humour and keen intelligence, as well as for his great gentleness.
Kidnapped with Foley
Cantlie is traveling in the same vehicle with Foley when both were abducted. A media blackout is put in place that lasts almost a year and a half, in an effort to protect the two.