Body Believed to Be Missing Bristol Student George Smyth Found in Romanian Mountains
Eighteen-year-old vanished in November after emergency call from Bucegi mountains; family expresses profound grief.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Sarah Connor
A body believed to be that of George Smyth, an 18-year-old University of Bristol student, has been discovered in Romania's Bucegi mountains.
Smyth, from Shropshire, vanished on November 23 while on a solo hiking trip.
Romanian local authorities notified Avon and Somerset Police of the discovery; forensic inquiries are underway to confirm identity and repatriate the body to Bristol.
The teen had made an emergency call for help from Țigănești, indicating he was disoriented, physically exhausted, and showing signs of hypothermia.
Smyth reportedly set off from Poiana Brasov with the intention of walking to Bran, a location famous for Bran Castle.
His parents located his phone and were reportedly shocked to discover his whereabouts, as he had not told them about the trip.
The search and rescue operation involved mountain rescue teams, a canine unit, drones, and helicopters, though adverse weather conditions, including deep snow, hindered efforts.
Although this latest news is incredibly painful, the torture of waiting is finally over, so we can now focus on bringing George home and saying goodbye.
Rescue teams conducted a second search operation in Valea Giganesti in June.
George Smyth's family has been informed of the discovery and is receiving support from a family liaison officer.
His family stated, "Although this latest news is incredibly painful, the torture of waiting is finally over, so we can now focus on bringing George home and saying goodbye."
They added, "We would appreciate privacy while we continue to come to terms with this loss."
The family expressed their devastation, saying, "We are all devastated by George's death. He was the best of us and is deeply missed by his younger brothers, family and friends."
They extended gratitude to Salvamont Mountain Rescue, acknowledging their tireless work since November in difficult and dangerous conditions.
The family also thanked Avon and Somerset Police and the University of Bristol for their extensive efforts to find George and support the family.