Missing ηiker found after bear attack in Rodopi mountains

A 53-year-old Greek hiker who went missing after a bear attack in the Fraktos Forest, near the Rodopi mountain range on the Greek-Bulgarian border, was found Tuesday morning by rescue teams.

The man fell into a deep ravine while trying to escape the bear, which chased him and a fellow hiker during their trek to an abandoned WWII warplane site. His companion managed to climb a tree and later alerted emergency services.

Paranesti Mayor Anastasios Kayiaoglou reported “visual contact” with the missing man, who was spotted in dense foliage. His condition remains unclear as EMAK rescue teams continue efforts to reach him.

Rescue operations involved drones, a helicopter, and volunteers. Both hikers are said to be experienced and members of the Drama Runners’ Association.