Authorities have recovered a body in the search for a British teenager who disappeared while hiking near Romania's Bran Castle, known as Dracula's Castle. Avon and Somerset Police said on Saturday that the remains found in the Bucegi Mountain region are believed to be those of George Smyth, an 18-year-old geology student from Bristol.
Discovery and Family Notification
Mr Smyth went missing in November last year after contacting emergency services to report exhaustion and hypothermia. The police force confirmed that his family has been informed and is receiving support from a family liaison officer. Formal identification is still pending, after which efforts will be made to return his body to Bristol.
Family's Statement and Gratitude
In a statement released through the police, Mr Smyth's family expressed their devastation: '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 thanked Salvamont Mountain Rescue, who 'worked tirelessly since November searching for George, despite very difficult and often dangerous conditions,' and also acknowledged Avon and Somerset Police and the University of Bristol for their support. The family added, '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.'
Circumstances of the Disappearance
George was trekking in the Bucegi Mountains on November 23, intending to walk to the village of Bran, famous for Bran Castle, which is marketed as 'Dracula's Castle.' The search involved extensive efforts by Romanian rescue teams under challenging conditions. The family has requested privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
