Overview
- Local mountain rescuers from Salvamont Brasov have launched a fresh operation focused on Valea Gigănesti but have found no conclusive leads so far.
- The latest searches took place on Monday under heavy snow, with teams scanning and digging in places where snow has collected beneath rocks.
- Rescuers say some areas remain buried under two to three metres of snow and drifts exceed three metres, which blocks access to remote valleys and cliff faces.
- Family members have said they have been forced to accept George Smyth’s likely death but hope the mountains will reveal his remains so they can bring him home.
- The Bucegi route George was taking rises from Poiana Brașov toward Bran and includes high, isolated trails that become especially hard to reach in prolonged winter conditions.