Overview

• Four firefighters from Chieti went missing during a recreational hike in the remote Balzolo valley on April 30.
• Two of the hikers were located and rescued overnight, with one transported for medical evaluation and the other unharmed.
• Search efforts remain ongoing for the remaining two firefighters, utilizing fluvial, speleo-diving teams, drones, and ground units.
• The rugged terrain, characterized by narrow valleys and a stream, poses significant challenges to rescue operations.
• The Centro Coordinamento Soccorsi, led by Prefect Gaetano Cupello, has mobilized police, medical services, civil protection, and military units in the effort.