Search for Missing British Teen Near Dracula’s Castle Suspended

The search efforts for British teenager George Smyth, who went missing near Dracula’s Castle in Romania, have been suspended due to hazardous weather conditions. The 18-year-old University of Bristol student disappeared on November 23, 2023, while hiking in the Tiganesti Valley.

Mountain rescuers from the Salvamont Brașov County Service faced extreme weather as they searched for Smyth. On the day he went missing, George managed to contact emergency services, reporting exhaustion and symptoms of hypothermia. Initial assumptions suggested he was heading towards the iconic Bran Castle, but authorities later clarified that there was no evidence to confirm this.

The search resumed with a team of 17 rescuers on the morning following the suspension. However, operations have been significantly hampered by heavy snowfall and a heightened avalanche risk, which currently stands at level four. In certain areas of the valley, snow depths exceed two meters, making any further search efforts too dangerous for the rescuers.

In a statement posted on Facebook, the Salvamont Brașov County Service emphasized that the case is not abandoned. “This operation has not been given up on,” they stated. “We treat all missing person cases with utmost seriousness and allocate all necessary resources.” The search will be resumed as soon as weather conditions improve and the risk of avalanches diminishes.

Authorities noted that George had experienced cold and possible hypothermia, prompting them to advise him to keep moving along marked trails towards the Malaiesti Chalet. Remaining stationary under such conditions would have accelerated heat loss, increasing the risk to his health.

George’s mother, Jo Smyth, has traveled to Romania to support the search efforts. She expressed her gratitude to the rescuers for their dedication. “His phone last had signal in a remote area. He made a call to emergency services, and they found his backpack shortly after,” she explained.

Local Member of Parliament Kerry McCarthy has also been actively involved, reaching out to the Foreign Secretary to ensure that George’s family receives all possible assistance. “My thoughts are with his family and friends. I encourage the Romanian authorities to do everything they can to find him,” McCarthy stated.

As the search continues, the rescue teams are prepared to respond immediately to any new leads. “If George’s phone is located or any conclusive evidence emerges, we will act without delay,” the rescue service affirmed.

With ongoing weather challenges, the situation remains critical, and the thoughts of the community are with George’s family during this difficult time. The rescue teams remain committed to their mission, ready to act at a moment’s notice to locate the missing teenager.