Spanish authorities have ramped up search efforts in the Pyrenees for Cole Henderson, a 27-year-old American who disappeared while hiking on July 9. Henderson last communicated with friends around 2 p.m., indicating he was switching his phone to airplane mode as he prepared for his trek near Mount Perdido in northeastern Spain's Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.
In a social media post, Max Senoff, a close friend, noted that Henderson's journey began in Torla, a village adjacent to the park. After failing to catch his flight back to the Netherlands the following weekend, friends expressed concern over his well-being and reported him missing.
The local Guardia Civil initiated search operations on July 14 using helicopters and specialized teams to comb through the rugged terrains of Huesca province, which encompasses both the park and mountainous regions. Henderson's car was located in a parking lot frequented by summer hikers. Investigators also discovered a receipt for camping fuel inside the vehicle, suggesting he had planned an overnight stay.
Known for his love of the outdoors, Henderson had recently attended the Running of the Bulls festival in Pamplona and is characterized by his knack for organizing group trips. His commitment to adventure is reflected in his social media, filled with images of hiking, mountain excursions, and sports activities in the Netherlands, where he plays soccer and is part of a running club.
Senoff emphasized Henderson's social nature and exceptional planning skills, assuring that he had shared a detailed itinerary prior to his trip. The ongoing search for Henderson highlights the dedication of Spanish authorities in ensuring the safety of visitors in the mountainous terrain.
