URGENT UPDATE: The search for George Smyth, an 18-year-old student from Bristol, has been temporarily paused due to escalating avalanche risks in the Romanian mountains. George went missing two weeks ago during a solo hike near the legendary Dracula’s Castle, with his last known communication taking place on November 23, 2025.
George contacted emergency services to report he was exhausted and suffering from hypothermia while hiking in the remote Tiganesti Valley, located at an altitude of 6,562 feet. Despite the swift deployment of search teams, who recovered George’s rucksack at the scene, no further signs of the teenager have emerged.
According to Sebastian Marinescu, director of Salvamont Brasov rescue services, risk assessments have indicated a level four avalanche threat, rendering continued operations perilous for rescuers. “It is impossible to carry out operations without endangering the lives of our rescuers,” he stated.
Despite the suspension of active search efforts, Marinescu reassured that the mission will resume once conditions improve. “Salvamont Brasov never abandons an operation and never gives up on any missing person, regardless of nationality or the circumstances of the accident,” he emphasized.
George’s family remains hopeful, with his mother, Jo Smyth, expressing the unimaginable pain of potentially losing her son. She stated, “The thought of life without him is unbearable. We hope and pray that he somehow survived despite all the odds.”
Authorities continue to utilize winter patrols and phone data to aid in the search, while maintaining close contact with George’s family. As the situation develops, the community holds collective hope for the safe return of this young man. Stay tuned for further updates on this critical situation.
