Rescue teams are continuing efforts to locate an 18-year-old British teenager who disappeared eight days ago near Dracula’s Castle in rural Romania. The search has drawn international attention, with updates going viral across social media.
George Smyth had embarked on a solo hike from Poiana Brasov toward Bran, home to the legendary Dracula’s Castle, and last contacted emergency services from the Tiganesti Valley. He reported suffering from exhaustion and hypothermia before communication was lost.
Authorities say daily search operations have been hampered by heavy snow and rapidly changing weather, conditions that are typical in late November and early December in the region.
Despite the harsh environment, crews continue to scavenge the mountainous terrain on foot, supported by all available equipment. A Black Hawk helicopter was also deployed to access the most remote areas, a first for local rescue operations.
Officials recovered a rucksack near the location where George made his final call, but no additional signs of the teenager have been found. His disappearance and ongoing search have gone viral, attracting global media coverage and online attention.
George’s mother, Jo Smyth, flew to Romania shortly after the alert was issued. Authorities have shared a photograph of George, urging anyone with information to come forward. Updates about the search have consistently gone viral, reflecting public concern over his safety.
Local rescue officials warn that trails connecting Poiana Brasov and Bran rise sharply into alpine terrain and can become extremely hazardous during cold snaps. The teenager’s disappearance near Dracula’s Castle has added a layer of intrigue, causing posts and news updates to quickly go viral.
So far, the search effort remains active, with authorities stressing that no further clues have emerged. The story has gone viral not only for the danger involved but also for the legendary location, with many comparing it to scenes from Dracula’s Castle lore.
The missing teen’s case continues to generate viral interest online, highlighting the challenges of solo hiking in Romania’s mountainous regions and the ongoing dedication of local search teams.