George Smyth, 18, reportedly left the University of Bristol in England on November 23, 2025, for a hike in Romania. Smyth took the hike solo toward the village of Bran, which is the rumored home of Count Dracula’s castle. He evidently ran into trouble while hiking and called emergency services for help. But when a rescue team went looking for him, members of the team only found his bag. More than 10 days later, it’s hard not to fear the worst.
According to Metro, Smyth reached the dense Tiganesti Valley, and he used his final bit of cell signal to call for help. He reportedly told dispatchers he was suffering from hypothermia and exhaustion. His mother, Jo, told the news outlet she got to Romania as quickly as she could.
“His phone last had signal in a remote mountain area. He made a distressing call to 112 on Sunday evening. The teams found his backpack in the same place from where he called for help within a few hours,” she said. “I flew to Romania immediately, and we are trying to support the search teams as best we can.”
Salvamont Brasov, a local branch of the Romanian National Mountain Rescue Service, shared a photo of Smyth. He was wearing the same jacket he reportedly wore the day of the hike.
“The family asks us to share the photo of George, the person missing since Sunday evening in the Bucegi Mountains. Despite maintained efforts, it has not been located todate, although search operations have been conducted daily, with resources permanently adapted to ground conditions,” a Facebook post translated to English reads.
“We ask all persons who have seen him or who has any relevant information to urgently contact Salvamont Brasov or go to the nearest police station,” officials added.
The Newport Salop Rugby Club issued a statement regarding Smyth’s disappearance, calling him a “much-loved” member of the club.
“Our thoughts are with George, his family, and his friends during this incredibly worrying time. As a club and a rugby family, we are holding onto hope that George is found safe and well, and hope that the ongoing search efforts in Romania bring positive news soon,” the statement reads in part.
“We ask everyone to keep George and the Smyth family in their hearts, and we will share verified updates where appropriate as we all pray for his safe return,” the club requested.
Per Metro, the weather conditions in the area are both snowy and extremely cold. Hopefully, Smyth had what he needed to survive the elements, and rescuers will find him soon. As moms, we can’t imagine how his family must feel.
