Missing hiker Stefani found safe in Vitosha

A missing woman returned safely after spending more than two days alone in mountainous terrain near Sofia. Stefani, age 20, descended independently around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and was located between Bistritsa and Zheleznitsa in apparently healthy condition, according to authorities and the Mountain Rescue Service.

Police notified her mother of the discovery, and Stefani was transported to the fourth regional department, where relatives had gathered. Medical personnel who examined her at the station confirmed she appeared physically well despite having survived without a mobile phone, identification, funds, or lighting equipment during her time in the wilderness.

More than 40 mountain rescue specialists joined Sofia police officers and numerous volunteers in the search operation that deployed tracking dogs and aerial drones across Vitosha Mountain. Following conversations with investigators and a health assessment, the young woman departed with her family.