Updates: Hey everyone, I just wanted to update you and let you know the Spanish Police have started their search back up as of last week (June 10, 2021) her partner Dan Colgate has been searching with private search efforts since last November, but thankfully now the authorities are getting involved again! I'll leave a link to the latest news article in the description at the top of the description. Thank you for watching and your support 🙏
Yes, I was going to say the same thing. Poor girl. A bone found in the Pyrenees Mountains was confirmed as belonging to Esther Dingley. A charity that represents her family released the report Friday, July 30, 2021. I have never heard of this type of news being handled by a charity. It's new to me. I hope her family can now begin to heal in whatever way they're able.
@@twistoffate4791 The charity seeks to support and the protect families dealing with trauma and the press, I believe. Dan, the family, and even I had SkyTv, the BBC, ITV and various newspapers calling for quotes, and they are relentless and increase pressure when you really can’t cope with it. I’m glad the family found this charity and had a sort of fire wall from the media as well as well meaning friends.
@@christinemillership1189 Thank you for responding & explaining. Now that I get it, I must agree that the "fire wall" buffer would indeed be a welcome layer of protection during a very painful time.
Her remains have been found. Medical exam confirmed she fell from a height and her remains were likely scattered by animals. Incredibly sad, I hope she didn’t suffer. RIP
Thank you, Sara for the update… I was getting ready to watch this episode, but I saw your post.. and I went no further. Thank you. I am a very experienced hiker/ equestrian and trail rider.. but I know how dangerous it is to hike / ride alone… getting injured by hiking or riding on the trail does not need to be a death sentence…, however, if you hike/ ride alone you put yourself at risk. Please, ladies or gentlemen please do not hike alone… I know all you introverts out there simply LOVE that… but I have to say that a large portion of hikers that went missing( male or female) were those hikers who ventured alone… why.?
I always hike alone. In my oppinion it isn't a bad idea if you prepare well. Use several check in points with your family, use a plb and don't change planns without letting anybody know. Plus always take proper equipment, also for emergency situations. Not everybody has the possibility to hike with someone else (like me) and than I think proper prep is key. I never had any problems so far. Must admit that I live in western Europe so things like real wilderness is something we don't know.
It's a terrible idea for the inexperienced. For me, solo hiking is the only way I can "reset" my body & mind. I always stick to my plan and tell multiple people/family exactly where I will be at all times including park rangers etc. Even with how ocd I feel I am with my planning, mother nature shows no mercy and will even take down the best and most experienced. Safety and emergency supplies only increase your odds of survival not guarantee it, specifically if the people looking for you don't know exactly where to look.. needle in the haystack.
@@thinlineofsanity1035 going alone for a long way is risky. I barely like walking alone on UK footpaths. I am surprise the boyfriend thought it was ok.
It’s strange that they decide to travel in this camper jan as a couple, and not yet go places together .. seems all wasn’t right in paradise .. Please put the physics on this case !!!
What a sensitive presenter and presentation of this very distressing subject. Thank you for the work you do to keep this information “fresh” in he public sector. Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺
I agree, however, when she started up it was good weather according to the weather reports I read, and the temps were decent.. but then literally within days of her being reported missing, the weather had tanked, heavy snow moved in, etc..I think a strong possibility is she did decide to venture down the French side, and had a fall, or possibly ran into bad weather, lost the trail etc. She seemed very experienced, and well prepared, but yes all those things you mentioned could have easily set in. I just keep urging people who go on any backcountry hike; anywhere in the world to take some kind of PLB, Garmin inreach, or some kind of emergency satellite device like that. not a guarantee, but can definitely can improve your odds if something does happen. I Just hope 🙏 and pray for a miracle here!
Women are very vulnerable when it comes to hiking and should always be armed in some way. I do not hike a lot, yet I have still run into quite a few creepy men, leading me to believe that there is a disproportionate amount of creeps on various trails.
Nothing compared to the creepy men who hang around university campuses waiting for women leaving bars alone and trying to get back home. I'd rather be hiking.
Good lord. Just last night my daughter and several of her friends were walking around midnight on this walking trail near the house and a guy stepped out of the trees and started following them! And there were several large men in my daughter's group, too. The guy started gaining on them and so they sped up and finally he left them when they came to the road. Very frightening experience for all of them.
You may think you are anonymous and random and safe but the psycho out looking for a victim has already got you sized up. Crime travels and it travels to where it's easy to commit, like in remote mountains.
Just want to say, hiking alone is awesome. I encounter amazing people on trail and if they are weird you don't have to walk with them. Bring good first aid, have a plan and communicate with a designated contact person, have back up navigation, carry an emergency whistle. If possible, a sat com or plb. Point is, with some smarts and preparedness, it is perfectly safe to be out on trail alone. Bad things can also happen in your own backyard. Live life without fear!🙌
Why are all these people going missing? so many stories. seemingly rational and physically able folks. Are people just getting lost? no maps/compass, no gps, no in-reach. i think people are just getting lost because they overestimate their navigational abilities. "oh, i won't miss or leave the trail..."; but day dream a little, the trail's gone; turn around, everything looks the same. people are too casual towards hiking in the wilderness, i think.
I think it's a combination of things. I think some people suffer falls or accidents.. for example this may I was hiking and seriously almost fell to my death..I broke 2 ribs and was really banged up and I've been hiking for years. I'm sure some people just get lost. Then I'm sure there's a small few that suffer follow play or something malice 🤷♂️ it's hard to say but when you look at how big some of these areas are, if you're hiking alone; even if you're experienced it's actually pretty easy to go missing. That's why it's very important to be prepared, know what you're getting into, and have proper gear . Thank you for watching and commenting🙏😇
Excellent. Great report and you stuck to the facts, no wild speculations although certainly one could suspect the "paranormal" as in so many cases worldwide, but you didn't go there. I know that area a little, where Ms Dingle vanished. I've driven through the Pyrenees many times, and I must admit, it's quite a spooky place and I would never spend a night alone there: not in a hut or refuge, and certainly not in a tent. Hikes should be done in groups hiking closely together never allowing for any member to get separated by more than 5 yards. Cheers.
Thank you and thank you for your insights on the case! I appreciate the info! I've never been there so had to rely solely on research. It definitely seems like there's beautiful parts but also dangerous parts! Are you from France? I lived in Paris for a while but actually preferred parts of the south of France, and more of the countryside. Obviously Paris is a great city, no doubt! But I loved traveling all over France, places like the French alps, Nice and Antibes. That whole coast area is of course beautiful but I loved Strasbourg and loved the Christmas 🎄 market they did there. I'm not sure if they still do.. but that was great! Anyway thanks for watching, and your kind feedback!
Interessante sua observação, mas porque não recomenda que fiquem em casas pontas nas montanhas, pelas fotos elas parecem bem seguras do tempo. e seria interessante o governo instalar antenas de telefone nos lugares mais movimentados. isso ajudaria a policia a rastrear os últimos sinais dos celulares. uma segurança para todos.
Você que diz conhecer o local, sabe as coordenadas do google maps, do local onde ela tirou a foto? a última foto dela? se souber olhando no google maps, por favor digite aqui as coordenadas para eu dar uma olhada. obrigado.
It isnt safe for a woman if there is some nutcase of a man around the place. It isnt safe for a man or a woman if the weather conditions are bad or if a fall happens or if illness sets in.
The last people who allegedly saw her were a Spanish couple coming down the Pic de Sauvegarde. They talked to her around 3pm while she was going up alone. Some articles say the man is a former Olympic skier who was hiking with his girlfriend. According to him she did not look tired and was carrying a huge backpack
Yes the info was very scattered when I made the video.. but I tried to make the most sense out of it. It's very bizarre that no trace has been found;( hopefully the family can find closure soon. Thank you for your feedback, and for watching!
Yes, Esther asked them if they had any fruit…….she’d got food but no fruit. Unfortunately they hadn’t. She always said she met amazing people who are all so caring, and they make their own communities by walking.
Thanks again for such an informative post. I’m in The UK and remember seeing the news of her disappearance. Sadly there hasn’t been anything since from our news media. I wasn’t aware of so much of the new information. My heart goes out to her partner. I just can’t imagine what he’s going through not knowing.
When storm, snowing, strong wind and dense fog starts in mountains even most experienced can be lost and many also die of expousure ,lost trail , fall ...
Agreed.. Honestly, depending on the situation, if I'm in that situation, where a storm with dense fog, wind, snow starts, I immediately try and find a covered spot right around me, and put up my shelter. Especially in white out conditions, it can be so easy to fall or get lost etc. That's one reason I always carry my Garmin satellite device. Not fool proof obviously, however, it gives weather updates and had sos and medivac services. As well as topo maps.
@@bawattsyl i alvays in visually strong geographic spots /markers made 180 degre turn and take a foto of direction where i came from..for memorizing spots for tracking back. Most people never do that, i learn to do that from my father since cihld age and helps me allot. Now is god idea to have new generation garmin with satelite sos rescue alarm. If it warks 100% i have no idea. I also use map and compas. In mauntains when fog is really dense in bare rock areas to many people cant follow trail and many die. In bare rocks areas im super afraid to be there in storm , becouse lightening kill to many people. Julian Alps are close to Adriatic sea and many lakes are there too. Evaporation of water is fast and all cool and make clouds in mountains fast to, so storm can build thete verry fast and can have allot of energy.
@@AA-wd2or you are very smart! And that is great that you learned to memorize your own tracking! It sounds like you have a lot of experience! I also carry a compass and paper maps. You're right there's no substitute for experience, and knowing how to navigate. I agree about mountains and lightning ⛈ that's usually what scares me the most, when I'm up on a high Ridge and a thunderstorm moves in. Especially when there's no cover in sight. It sounds like you've had experience in some pretty tough mountains! Where are you from? Thank you for your feedback, and comments! I really appreciate it! 🙏
@@bawattsylthank you i love to travel in remote african , and south american remote areas, also i love Mongolia alot. I,m biologist and behind me is also 15 years of army ..NATO climbing center..i love hiking people community they are all positive happy people. I'm from Slovenia. ua-cam.com/video/ZsqgQE0sGoA/v-deo.html famous photographer love our place to ua-cam.com/video/MaJm0N1vbOs/v-deo.html
@@AA-wd2or wow that's amazing! You've definitely been to and experienced a lot more than me! I'd love to one day visit some of those places! Sounds like you've had a lot of experience! I agree the hiking community is great! Thank you for the sharing the links! Amazing!
Feel the people touched by this tragic loss. I’ve been riding bikes in the Pyrenees for nearly forty years travelling down there. And I still class myself as totally inexperienced. I break a lot of the rules like riding alone. Traversing the mountains at night etc. I’m well aware one day my luck will run out. Sometimes I wonder when I hear these stories, I can’t help but think they are fellow travelers trying to navigate the depths of depression by pushing oneself to the limit in an attempt to relive the weight that is on your shoulders. 🍀
So she seen on cctv on Nov,19 but that Antonio guy gave her a ride on Nov 21 and nobody else seen her after that. So Antonio was the last person with her and he also told the police a story about her going to some place that wasn't in her plans and she didn't tell anyone else about going there. I hope the police really look into that Antonio guy
Amy, sadly her remains were just recently found roughly 10 days ago. I'm working on some update videos, but her case was ruled an accidental death, most likely a bad fall. But you're right in that all the details we had prior to get being found were quite confusing and it also didn't help that the French and Spanish authorities didn't agree on what may have happened.. thank you for watching and your feedback🙏
Why does the police behavior remind me of the Madeleine McCann case? Also a mystery--compounded by incompetence or lack of coordination! Nice photography and presentation, Bryan! You do wonderful work, man!
Thank you Mark! I appreciate that! Yes I was really frustrated here in trying to understand why the French were so unwilling to accept this could have been a fall or injury.. they seemed hell bent on their theory of suicide or her purposely dissappearing.. which i personally don't agree with..🤷♂️
Interestingly, the weekend Esther went missing, I read an article about her and Dan on the BBC news website and their fun life in the camper. By the next weekend there were articles about her going missing :-( Terrible. She's been in the news a bit but then I've been searching for updates on her which isn't quite the same thing as making the front pages.
NEVER hike alone! Please take it from someone with experience! If you travel together ,hike together! I'm so upset..if only he joined her, maybe things would've ended up differently..not blaming him, just wanting people to be cautious about these things. Especially, since shes a woman..woman hiking alone- an invite to danger ..stranger -danger! Always ! I hope I dont sound like a crazy Karen lol ..my teen daughter wants to go on the biggest hike of her life (taking after her mama) cross county and beyond ,and I'm beyond myself at this point..kids, please listen to your adults lol dont hike alone. Too many of such stories. Tragic stories! I've personally met so many creeps on my hikes ..and I wasnt even alone, but it creeped me out badly, I would just want to return! I grew up in Siberia ,a tundra ,and have travelled quite a bit throughout Russia, Ukraine and nearby..then the states ..I myself have made some mistakes that could've caused me my life..I guess I got lucky! Especially if you're traveling to other countries, where boundaries are different than from your country ! Cultural upbringing, morals, behavioral differences..if you're a foreigner, you're a target number 1.. Listen to your intuition too, it will never betray you! Be safe
Hi Bryan, i find your videos very interesting filled with compassion and respect for ppl. May I suggest - could you return to your videos and add updates if there are any- so the video itself will depict latest findings and updates? I would really like that I find myself googling for updates for your older videos Thank you for bringing these ppl stories to the front Billy
Why not look more deeply into the woman with a dog who reported seeing someone? Why not investigate more deeply the other woman in the store with the chia seeds? What a DUMB attitude you have.
@@theultimatereductionist7592 there is less evidence pointing to Colgate and more for the last person seen with her so of course your comment is the dumber to dumb🤣😂🤣 Baloran didn’t just see her, he interacted with her and even gave her a ride you ding dong. He could be a serial killer for all we know. But I agree with Christine in that it probably was just an accident👍🏻
If the French police think there was no accident possible, they need to say why. Because, literally, anybody can twist an ankle and fall into a crevasse.
Loss of ester doesn't have to in vain .most folks don't realize how dangerous it is out of public .woods used to be safest place to be .not any more .every cabin in the woods is watched by an evil one .there is no safety away from the public
"woods used to be safest place to be" Right. Back when there was no inclement weather. Back when there was zero possibility of injury or fall while hiking. Back when there was no chance at all of getting lost. Back when there were no large, potentially dangerous animals like bears or wolves. Tell me again, when was this???
Because even if you have hiking friends people hike at different speeds. She could have been with someone and still gotten lost, fallen, or been killed. They may have solved it if that was the case but not necessarily. Reason #2. Not everyone knows people who like to hike and can take time off to do that with you. So you go alone or stay home.
I visited the Pyrenees and fell in love with that area but it is a wild area and isolated. I would never even consider a solo hike there. It is a magical place though. Like stepping back hundreds of years.
It was a big story here in France and the UK , Her body was found august 2021 she had taken a bad fall , Her boyfriend spent nearly a year walking a 1000 kilometres looking for her remains and did eventually find them ,
When weather makes rescue difficult or impossible; well, that’s the exact type of weather in which people are more likely go missing in the wild. If I ever decided to drop out of my life, I would at least let my family know that I was alive. I do realize different people have different situations.
The weather that day was glorious, sunny and no snow. The poor girl girl had an accident that would killed her on impact, even if she’d been up there with dozens of people. You don’t know what your3 talking about.
I love hiking and it can be dangerous specially on unknown terrain. Managed to be in the woods/hills after sunset. No navigation , flashlights dead and knowing There would be possibilities to fall down along the way. The way back to the car took me around 6 hours. Went back there couple weeks later to discover that in normal circumstances the way back would take 1,5 hour. Since that day I always take extra gear. Even on day trips , I take my tent and supplies to be able to spent the night when something goes wrong. Be safe and prepared for the worst.
What was really the motive to do so though? They were not married he cannot receive any insurance policy on her? Unless he was like cheating on her and somehow she found out and they got in fight? I don't know do not see reasoning why he would murder her even so just break up if things weren't working out for whatever reason?
@@brettk9316 Their relationship was quite bumpy actually, they were together for 19years but never married nor had kids. If they did have a fallout when Esther went hiking solo at night, I doubt the boyfriend would admit this as people are a lot more sympathetic to someone considered a widow as opposed to an ex-boyfriend. We will never know all the facts
@@Emma-py8qe I am a close friend of both Dan and Esther. I know about how and why they hiked, as they would phone or text me. I don’t say much as it’s not currently helpful, but I resent the way people write about them, applying their own knowledge to people who by the very nature of the way they lived have proven they’re not like you and me by marching to a different drum, having a very different way of looking at life, and frankly they are people who you’ve never met. So what if they had a bumpy private life? If I lived 24x7 with one person and 5 dogs in an area I couldn’t speak the language, I’d have melt downs too. They chose a difficult path, but were planning their wedding the summer before she went missing. No relationship is perfect, but reports like this unleash people’s control over their imaginations. I know why he was in France and why she was having a last trek before Brexit. You don’t. I’m fed up of all the conspiracy theorists, especially those who are blinded enough to blame Dan for her death. People didn’t know them, and then talk about claiming insurance policies………rubbish! These people are real, not actors in a movie. They have feelings, and what their family and friends are going through (including me) you couldn’t comprehend in a month of Sundays, and yet you coldly put out there your suppositions. You see, the authorities HAVE long since ruled out Dan as he had firm, unshakeable alibis and was 100 kilometres away from Esther. Fact. If you doubt that, you’ve been watching too many James Bond movies. Esther was found by Dan just a few days ago, along with all her kit. On the surface of things, it looks like an accident, but we won’t know for sure until DNA testing of the site has been completed. Have a bit of respect. She loved hiking, unfortunately had an accident and paid for it with her life. Your opinions frankly don’t matter and neither do mine…….it’s Dan, her mum and her dad we should be respectful of. Please.
Esther has had an accident and been too hurt or isolated to be able to help herself. I find it frustrating that the police will make up a story about what she's done or not done and then abdicate their responsibility in searching for her. I hope that in the near future she will be found and returned to her family.
Agreed………Dan spent the winter getting another van together to search for her himself. My husband and I are friends of the couple. He arrived to start searching woodlands whilst he waited for the snows to fully melt, and knowing the police thought she wasn’t up there, he carried on systematically searching, sending them GPS reports………. until he found her last week. Now he’s the subject of innuendo and suspicion, even though he’s been declared innocent in this accident. Some people have no compassion. It’s a tragic accident……I hope the police will release the results of their DNA search soon. They may even have to use helicopters to get her out from where she is. God bless, my lovely Esther. xx
Just a quick comment………Esther died immediately by breaking her spine following a 100 foot fall. Instant death. Snow immediately covered the gulley where her body landed and her equipment lay, but over the months of the winter, her body was transferred by glazier effect travelling her into the middle of a field. The French police were excellent, quiet and diligent but the Spanish were more open and sharing, but it was Dan’s diligence that completely forced the find, as he knew she had to be up there somewhere, knowing her character. She was cremated this week and is back with us, thank goodness.xx
I hope it is not a story similar to that of Gabby Petito and her boyfriend, but for a man to let a woman or his partner go hiking alone seems irresponsible and unloving to me, knowing all the dangers she would be exposed to....🙄😨👎
It sounds like a great idea, but having dealt with badddd depression, severe anxiety, and suic*dal thoughts - sometimes i worry when ppl use adventure, traveling, etc. in an attempt to "get happy". They've often tried other methods and failed. They think a fun adventure will cure their depression. Often, it doesn't. Ppl react differently. What do you do when youve tried everything, and what you feel as your last effort to be happy with your life, what do you do when that doesn't work? That being said.... Are we positive she didnt get back in with the guy that gave her a ride? As a female...I could never hitchhike and catch a ride with a man. And i know many are probably harmless. I just know Im bad at judging character from seeing a persons appearance, and speaking a few words. And history has shown hitchhiking doesnt end well often. She was definitely braver than I.
Wholly agree with on the depression - travelling = "happiness" thing... Also, being unmarried in a bumpy relationship for ~20yrs and childless in one's late 30's is not what most women/ people would wish for :(
People who are depressed can have manic phases when they feel super-strong and capable of anything; they underestimate danger and overestimate their abilities. [Speaking from personal experience.] Maybe Esther was in this type of mood? If so, it's likely that the dangers of the mountain and the terrible weather led to her death. I strongly disagree with the "intentional disappearance" theory. Very sad for her and the people who love her.
The weather at the time of her disappearance was not bad….it was mild and sunny, which was why she extended her trek. She had weapons, and sophisticated equipment. She was highly experienced and Dan and Esther regularly walked the Alps.
@@moviemad56 If you’d ever trekked in mountainous regions, you would know that anyone can have a freak accident. The area she walked was potentially dangerous, but just one slip could make the difference……however she knew the area well and the weather that day was fine and sunny. She even photographed bear tracks just before her last message! She could have been defending herself from someone, and fell into a fissure……..and there are many places we cannot easily see. Plus she had a huge backpack……..where’s that gone? The French Police thought she’d been abducted and the Spanish Police thought she’d intentionally walked away. I spoke to both forces during the search around Christmas, as they wanted to know if she was hiding with me. I’m a close friend, and we usually phoned and texted probably 3 or 4 times a week, but nothing since November. Then the news in July about finding a small part of her remains. At least we now know she’s there, close by to where she sent her last message, so the police and mountaineers can concentrate on one area. I’m still grieving, but my heart really goes out to Dan, Rea, Terry and the rest of the family and her other friends. Never to see that wonderful smile break out like sunshine…….it’s tragic.
Your a bit out the ballpark!! People don't always have someone to hike with and yeah it's gotten worse in national forests but you have to live! What do you do wrap yourself in plastic build a steel cube 4 ft thick and stay in it 24/7? I definitely say it's better to go in with someone or group but people are not thinking oh I'm going for a short hike I'll prolly be killed today.... not arguing ya just impractical a lot of times
Some perspective is needed here, in 2017 just over 330 million people visited U.S. National Parks, in that same year there were 3,453 reported search and rescue missions and 182 deaths in National Parks. You’re far more likely to die in a car crash on your way to a park than to actually die IN a park
Is there a timeline? That would be helpful. I agree with the previous commenter, it's just totally foolhardy to hike alone. ANYTHING can happen. People don't realize how easily you can get into trouble: twist an ankle, fall, wild animal, unexpected weather, a run-in with the wrong person, medical emergency. There is NO good reason to go it alone.
Yes, but you try telling that to a determined, independent woman like Esther. You couldn’t stop her. This wasn’t her first hike there, and she and Dan had walked all over the Alps, alone and together. I could get run over by a tractor as I come out of my gateway……..sometimes accidents just do happen. Tragically.
@@whiteavalanche8347 What a naive thing to say. The vast majority of humanity never hikes - alone or otherwise. If their ultimate happiness is say, a big family, then that's their grand adventure. It's just as meaningful and exciting for them, as your stuff is to you. They don't envy you at all, and probably think YOU are missing out on life.
The guy who gave her a lift..🤔...How did he start to talk to her?.Why would she accept a lift.?.He’s last statement about ‘dangerous lakes’..She’s in or around the lake..We know mountains and lakes could be dangerous.So why state this.?I would like to see he’s statement.Also didn’t he say he see her again later.?Did he suggest they walk to the lake?.He seems to know the area well...
Esther was very friendly and trusting. The world was wonderful to her, and she just didn’t live the kind of life that would make her suspicious. Not everyone is ‘streetwise’.
... everybody thinks ..... I will never have a problem ... I am the best .... the strongest .... what Shell be .... and then they are missed ... in one second ..... such films should be shown in school ... every day .... 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏😇🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
I'm sorry to say but I this does not need a paranormal explanation. I suspect she had an accident and was eaten by the local vultures. In 2013 a similar fate befell a French woman. Apparently in the time it took for a SAR helicopter to reach her position there was next to nothing left.
Are you directing that comment at me or? I've never suggested paranormal reasons in any of my videos. I just present the facts as I've learned them and generally if I do offer up theories, they are ones like you just said, having an accident, fall, animal predation etc. I agree with you; after reading what the locals said, and learning more about the region, there's just so many areas she could have fallen, and they would never find her due to the terrain. But yes I agree with you, I don't believe anything paranormal happened. Thanks for watching, and your feedback!
@@Supergeologist oh no worries at all! I just wanted to clarify just in case:) i agree with your theory on what happened. I think a lot of people often don't realize how vast some of these areas are, and the fact that we often don't find people; while sad, and tragic; is also not surprising. Even searching from the air, it can be very hard to spot people unless they are in a clearing, Ridge, etc and have something bright or reflective. There's been several other types of cases I've studied; where they were lost in the wild for a week and the thing that ultimately saved them was the helicopter seeing their mylar reflective emergency blanket. In any event, I would never suggest a paranormal theory unless there was actual evidence of that. Otherwise I think it's disrespectful to the families and friends to suggest those things, so I'm definitely in agreement with you on what you said! I appreciate your feedback, and for getting back to me! That was very kind of you! I'm assuming your a geologist? That's incredible! I've always loved geology and archeology!
It is very peaceful to go running alone, just like it's peaceful to hike alone. And if you lack friends who also enjoy hiking, it might seem better to just go instead of missing out. But it's dangerous.
@@pm2886 I have tried, but my friends have spouses, kids, and seemingly endless responsibilities, and they have no interest in participating in my hobbies. Local hiking groups are composed of students, which is not my age group. I stick out like a sore thumb.
@@twistoffate4791 There are plenty of hiking (and other activity) groups for middle aged and older people. You just need to put energy into tracking them down.
@4:97 Chia seeds?? Wouldn't keep a mouse alive! What hiker would not choose cheese or high carbs snack? Bacon? How about a sandwich? Odd feature in a bizarre case!
Haha mark a lot of hikers will put Chia seeds into their water because it's a supefood and can really help provide fiber, amino acids, helps reduce inflammation, and can just be a good way to give your water a boost.. I'm guessing she wasn't just eating them..at least in my experience in hiking, people will often mix them in with water or add them to one of their backpacking meals as a topper:) Thank you so much for watching!
@@Emma-py8qe She slipped because she wasn’t wearing the right footwear……..they found her crampon boots in her kit. How she came to not wear them, we will never know. So sad.
One of the problems is that they seen to think that a woman will just take off etc but they don't seem to apply that to men that are missing. Seems to be a patriarchal, chauvinistic attitude. Hope they find out what happened to her. It's always hard on the family not knowing where their loved one is.
I agree with you and try never to imply that. Or if I do its in hoping they are still alive somewhere. I think in this case she most likely had a fall or injury of some kind. I hope they can find some closure soon! Thank you for your feedback, and for watching!
It’s either Colgate or the single male hiker…..unless she did come off the mountain, spent the night in her van….then voluntarily disappeared. It’s possible. Being a woman, alone, is a scary situation.
Prayers for Esther I think without knowing the entire story speculation should be self contained, of course law enforcement have to ask the difficult questions in a situation such as this but it need not be an ordeal for the loved one's left behind.
Bit of an update here Bryan. Dan (the bf) has released his report on what he knows. U get some idea of how experienced Esther is plus a kit list. He is pushing a run in with a hunter theory.
@@ref145 I live here and go into the mountains alone all the time as do alot of local and international visitors. You must take the necessary precautions such as letting love know where you're going and carrying emergency provisions, survival equipment and location GPS. If you go into the high peaks in the depth of winter and you're not experienced, then you're asking for serious trouble.
Really bad idea to hike alone always have a partner plus a beacon transponder so if you do get lost or hurt they can find you... Until I start watching these shows I didn't realize how many people have gone missing and national parks and Parks from other countries my husband didn't even want me to walk to the store years ago by myself two blocks let alone go for a hike it's just a bad idea to go alone!
they are very active people, following their dreams, exercise regularly, getting married, and diagnosed with depression. it might bea good idea to not go to the dr. they went to.
So she went on a solo hike in a Foreign Country???? DUMB!!! Thank GOD I am Naturally afraid of things Just like this and have NO Desire to go out like that! People take WAY too many Chances!!! I will say that when you are a Depressed person, you make BAD Decisions, so I feel for her!!!
It's sad but she entered into the wilderness where absolutely anything and a million things could have happened. I hope Mr Colgate gets closure and finds her.
Blake, I didn't know the details of the terrain at the time. Only what I read but that's often skewed.. and I wanted to get the video out. To answer your question: after hearing from some of the locals, if you look at the pics and maps, there are ridges all over which according to local hikers a person could fall off one of those and be tucked under the Ridge covered by snow or all the trees and shrubs etc as things bloom.. there are many areas where if there's snow or ice on Trail, the person could fall and possibly slide into a lake and because of the way the terrain is, it would be virtually impossible to find the person without teams and teams going in and the area is so fast it could take years. Apparently there are many rocky high and low points along many areas, when covered by snow could easily trip up a hiker new to the trail. Mr Ballen who reported to media outlets after they found him, details some of this. I have links in the description of you'd like further reading. But let me know if you have any other questions.. thank you for watching and your comment!
I think it’s rare that women are accosted on the trail. I think changing your plans, and not letting someone know your exact trail and ETA, is essential for hiking, esp alone. I think there was a comment below saying she was found and died from a fall.
Yes you're correct.. she had Terrible fall and after months of searching, her long time partner finally found her. Very sad.. but at least they have some closure.. thank you for commenting and for watching! I appreciate the feedback🙏
As far as I know, it was a policeman investigating in that case that was sleeping in the mobile home of the couple. He was tired and way home was too long, as the village where the van was parked in a remote village in the mountains. Nothing suspicious!
Depression does not mean your susuicidal...I have had Depression all my life and I would never hurt myself...I also would never take antidepressants....that said I WOULD live in a van. I noticed after reading the comments as well as thus video how some people suspect she took her own life because she battled Depression....I disagree...I think she had a terrible accident ..whether her shoes 👞 are to Blame or not...she slipped tumbled and fell to her death...it's very sad...I'm sorry for her loved ones..may God be with her and all of those involved.
Penny, it's definitely confusing because of how the media convered and let the information out. But to answer simply, yes everyone was interviewed extensively.. what made it even harder was the after a month or so the French and Spanish authorities were split on what they thought happened. Ultimately, now that more info about the area and time has surfaced, and given her character and love for her family etc, it's throught she most likely had a fall or accident of some kind..according to locals there's so many lakes, ledges, and other places, and almost impossible to see places without drones or other special equipment. Hopefully they will find some answers soon🙏 thank you for your question, and for watching!
She was amazing & awesome hiking all's overs !How's truly sads !! She one of best !! Yeah !! He & she we're humans ,tippical y havings argument s as we all s does ;! Thank you stays safe out there's !!
Interesting to hear the narrator describe the exact same situation here which mirrors the Gabby and Brian story. Traveling FT together in a van for years. “Possible disagreements, partner was very nice and cooperative, not considered a suspect.”
Most of these stories seem to always have people getting "seperated" during a hike or hiking alone which makes me suspicious that they were suicidal from the beginning.
I Googled & an article dated today, July 24, 2021, stated Dan Colgate was informed that remains were found in the Pyrenees that could be his girlfriend Esther Dingley.
How'd they know it was an accidental fall? Should never rule out a deliberate jump but who could even tell if you didn't have cctv on them. I suppose they didn't find anything odd in her final communications but that's not evidence either as many people who've killed themselves 'seemed ok' prior.
What does it matter if it was an accidental fall or she jumped and THAT'S what killed her? She's just as dead, her body will be found in the same place and she died in the same way, and the police won't have to investigate as it wasn't foul play. The only difference is that some life insurance policies won't pay if the manner of death is from suicide, which I don't think it was anyway. I don't understand the debate...who cares if it was an accident or suicide...I guess I don't understand why it would matter.
Occam’s Razor - she fell off a cliff. Nobody was there to help her. That was the first obvious thing that could have happened. Next, maybe a bear or wolves. Third, some weirdo she met on the trail killed her. That’s how I see it.
Updates: Hey everyone, I just wanted to update you and let you know the Spanish Police have started their search back up as of last week (June 10, 2021) her partner Dan Colgate has been searching with private search efforts since last November, but thankfully now the authorities are getting involved again! I'll leave a link to the latest news article in the description at the top of the description. Thank you for watching and your support 🙏
I think very sadly her remains have been found. RIP Esther.
Yes, I was going to say the same thing. Poor girl. A bone found in the Pyrenees Mountains was confirmed as belonging to Esther Dingley. A charity that represents her family released the report Friday, July 30, 2021. I have never heard of this type of news being handled by a charity. It's new to me. I hope her family can now begin to heal in whatever way they're able.
@@twistoffate4791 The charity seeks to support and the protect families dealing with trauma and the press, I believe. Dan, the family, and even I had SkyTv, the BBC, ITV and various newspapers calling for quotes, and they are relentless and increase pressure when you really can’t cope with it. I’m glad the family found this charity and had a sort of fire wall from the media as well as well meaning friends.
@@christinemillership1189 Thank you for responding & explaining. Now that I get it, I must agree that the "fire wall" buffer would indeed be a welcome layer of protection during a very painful time.
Her partner found her remains. She had fallen on icy rocks. Very sad. www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-tyne-58205386
Her remains have been found. Medical exam confirmed she fell from a height and her remains were likely scattered by animals. Incredibly sad, I hope she didn’t suffer. RIP
Triste histoire d’une fille qui voulait l’aventure et se dépasser , may she Rest In Peace
Thank you, Sara for the update… I was getting ready to watch this episode, but I saw your post.. and I went no further. Thank you.
I am a very experienced hiker/ equestrian and trail rider.. but I know how dangerous it is to hike / ride alone… getting injured by hiking or riding on the trail does not need to be a death sentence…, however, if you hike/ ride alone you put yourself at risk. Please, ladies or gentlemen please do not hike alone…
I know all you introverts out there simply LOVE that… but I have to say that a large portion of hikers that went missing( male or female) were those hikers who ventured alone… why.?
She is not depressed anymore
I think hiking alone is just a bad idea.
Especially when you tell noone where your going or your plans.
She told a couple strangers but really hard to take them as fact.
I always hike alone. In my oppinion it isn't a bad idea if you prepare well. Use several check in points with your family, use a plb and don't change planns without letting anybody know. Plus always take proper equipment, also for emergency situations.
Not everybody has the possibility to hike with someone else (like me) and than I think proper prep is key. I never had any problems so far.
Must admit that I live in western Europe so things like real wilderness is something we don't know.
It's a terrible idea for the inexperienced. For me, solo hiking is the only way I can "reset" my body & mind. I always stick to my plan and tell multiple people/family exactly where I will be at all times including park rangers etc. Even with how ocd I feel I am with my planning, mother nature shows no mercy and will even take down the best and most experienced. Safety and emergency supplies only increase your odds of survival not guarantee it, specifically if the people looking for you don't know exactly where to look.. needle in the haystack.
@@thinlineofsanity1035 going alone for a long way is risky. I barely like walking alone on UK footpaths. I am surprise the boyfriend thought it was ok.
@@travisdallenbach7480 the irony is that the park ranger will be the dodgy one!
Very Kind of you to cover these cases, and your presentation is very nice! Thank you
It’s strange that they decide to travel in this camper jan as a couple, and not yet go places together .. seems all wasn’t right in paradise ..
Please put the physics on this case !!!
@@sandrinelewis8742 physics?
@@Neilukuk …you know what was meant…smart butt!
Excellent channel. Very caring & humane narrator. Beautiful voice.
What a sensitive presenter and presentation of this very distressing subject.
Thank you for the work you do to keep this information “fresh” in he public sector.
Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺
You do Great Work! You deserve more followers! Thank you for all you do!!
Lack of food, exhaustion, poor clothing and freezing weather conditions are not a good combination.
I agree, however, when she started up it was good weather according to the weather reports I read, and the temps were decent.. but then literally within days of her being reported missing, the weather had tanked, heavy snow moved in, etc..I think a strong possibility is she did decide to venture down the French side, and had a fall, or possibly ran into bad weather, lost the trail etc. She seemed very experienced, and well prepared, but yes all those things you mentioned could have easily set in. I just keep urging people who go on any backcountry hike; anywhere in the world to take some kind of PLB, Garmin inreach, or some kind of emergency satellite device like that. not a guarantee, but can definitely can improve your odds if something does happen. I Just hope 🙏 and pray for a miracle here!
In the store cctv, she looks rail thin. I doubt she could last long in cold conditions.
@@scallopohare9431 Good point. It is important to be fit; extremely thinness, even with strong muscles, is not ideal in the wild.
Exactly like the case of the two Dutch girls who traveled in Panama
Add a depressive condition 😢
Thank you for all you do and for your respect and empathy towards the families.
Thank you a.g; as always I appreciate your feedback and watching!
Women are very vulnerable when it comes to hiking and should always be armed in some way. I do not hike a lot, yet I have still run into quite a few creepy men, leading me to believe that there is a disproportionate amount of creeps on various trails.
Exactly
Be safe ✋🏼🇲🇽
Nothing compared to the creepy men who hang around university campuses waiting for women leaving bars alone and trying to get back home. I'd rather be hiking.
Read my above comment my god hiking is so dangerous I'm armed with a handgun ,knives and maisse just to get coffee at corner Mart wow wake up
Good lord. Just last night my daughter and several of her friends were walking around midnight on this walking trail near the house and a guy stepped out of the trees and started following them! And there were several large men in my daughter's group, too. The guy started gaining on them and so they sped up and finally he left them when they came to the road. Very frightening experience for all of them.
You have a wonderful and soothing voice, I could listen to you all day
You may think you are anonymous and random and safe but the psycho out looking for a victim has already got you sized up. Crime travels and it travels to where it's easy to commit, like in remote mountains.
And your greatest enemies - your own hubris plus mother nature, are already there.
Well done , thank you.
Just want to say, hiking alone is awesome. I encounter amazing people on trail and if they are weird you don't have to walk with them. Bring good first aid, have a plan and communicate with a designated contact person, have back up navigation, carry an emergency whistle. If possible, a sat com or plb. Point is, with some smarts and preparedness, it is perfectly safe to be out on trail alone. Bad things can also happen in your own backyard. Live life without fear!🙌
Why are all these people going missing? so many stories. seemingly rational and physically able folks. Are people just getting lost? no maps/compass, no gps, no in-reach. i think people are just getting lost because they overestimate their navigational abilities. "oh, i won't miss or leave the trail..."; but day dream a little, the trail's gone; turn around, everything looks the same. people are too casual towards hiking in the wilderness, i think.
I think it's a combination of things. I think some people suffer falls or accidents.. for example this may I was hiking and seriously almost fell to my death..I broke 2 ribs and was really banged up and I've been hiking for years. I'm sure some people just get lost. Then I'm sure there's a small few that suffer follow play or something malice 🤷♂️ it's hard to say but when you look at how big some of these areas are, if you're hiking alone; even if you're experienced it's actually pretty easy to go missing. That's why it's very important to be prepared, know what you're getting into, and have proper gear . Thank you for watching and commenting🙏😇
There’s 7.9 billion people on this planet. They are not ‘all’ going missing. In fact very few go missing.
You seem like such a kind person💕
This is such an awesome channel.
Excellent. Great report and you stuck to the facts, no wild speculations although certainly one could suspect the "paranormal" as in so many cases worldwide, but you didn't go there. I know that area a little, where Ms Dingle vanished. I've driven through the Pyrenees many times, and I must admit, it's quite a spooky place and I would never spend a night alone there: not in a hut or refuge, and certainly not in a tent. Hikes should be done in groups hiking closely together never allowing for any member to get separated by more than 5 yards. Cheers.
Thank you and thank you for your insights on the case! I appreciate the info! I've never been there so had to rely solely on research. It definitely seems like there's beautiful parts but also dangerous parts! Are you from France? I lived in Paris for a while but actually preferred parts of the south of France, and more of the countryside. Obviously Paris is a great city, no doubt! But I loved traveling all over France, places like the French alps, Nice and Antibes. That whole coast area is of course beautiful but I loved Strasbourg and loved the Christmas 🎄 market they did there. I'm not sure if they still do.. but that was great! Anyway thanks for watching, and your kind feedback!
Interessante sua observação, mas porque não recomenda que fiquem em casas pontas nas montanhas, pelas fotos elas parecem bem seguras do tempo. e seria interessante o governo instalar antenas de telefone nos lugares mais movimentados. isso ajudaria a policia a rastrear os últimos sinais dos celulares. uma segurança para todos.
Você que diz conhecer o local, sabe as coordenadas do google maps, do local onde ela tirou a foto? a última foto dela? se souber olhando no google maps, por favor digite aqui as coordenadas para eu dar uma olhada. obrigado.
It isn't safe for a woman, or for anyone, but especially a woman, to go hiking alone.
It isnt safe for a woman if there is some nutcase of a man around the place. It isnt safe for a man or a woman if the weather conditions are bad or if a fall happens or if illness sets in.
@@rasher331 não é seguro, pq pode haver homem, mas pode haver alguma mulher maluca também.
Nonsense.
The last people who allegedly saw her were a Spanish couple coming down the Pic de Sauvegarde. They talked to her around 3pm while she was going up alone. Some articles say the man is a former Olympic skier who was hiking with his girlfriend. According to him she did not look tired and was carrying a huge backpack
Yes the info was very scattered when I made the video.. but I tried to make the most sense out of it. It's very bizarre that no trace has been found;( hopefully the family can find closure soon. Thank you for your feedback, and for watching!
Yes, Esther asked them if they had any fruit…….she’d got food but no fruit. Unfortunately they hadn’t. She always said she met amazing people who are all so caring, and they make their own communities by walking.
Her remains were found in July 2021. She died after falling from a height of about 100 feet. DNA testing confirmed it was her.
Thanks again for such an informative post. I’m in The UK and remember seeing the news of her disappearance. Sadly there hasn’t been anything since from our news media.
I wasn’t aware of so much of the new information. My heart goes out to her partner. I just can’t imagine what he’s going through not knowing.
Not to mention how distraught her mother must be.
She was found and identified, may she Rest In Peace beautiful Free Spirit 🌺💗
Good on you making us aware
When storm, snowing, strong wind and dense fog starts in mountains even most experienced can be lost and many also die of expousure ,lost trail , fall ...
Agreed.. Honestly, depending on the situation, if I'm in that situation, where a storm with dense fog, wind, snow starts, I immediately try and find a covered spot right around me, and put up my shelter. Especially in white out conditions, it can be so easy to fall or get lost etc. That's one reason I always carry my Garmin satellite device. Not fool proof obviously, however, it gives weather updates and had sos and medivac services. As well as topo maps.
@@bawattsyl i alvays in visually strong geographic spots /markers made 180 degre turn and take a foto of direction where i came from..for memorizing spots for tracking back. Most people never do that, i learn to do that from my father since cihld age and helps me allot. Now is god idea to have new generation garmin with satelite sos rescue alarm. If it warks 100% i have no idea. I also use map and compas. In mauntains when fog is really dense in bare rock areas to many people cant follow trail and many die. In bare rocks areas im super afraid to be there in storm , becouse lightening kill to many people. Julian Alps are close to Adriatic sea and many lakes are there too. Evaporation of water is fast and all cool and make clouds in mountains fast to, so storm can build thete verry fast and can have allot of energy.
@@AA-wd2or you are very smart! And that is great that you learned to memorize your own tracking! It sounds like you have a lot of experience! I also carry a compass and paper maps. You're right there's no substitute for experience, and knowing how to navigate. I agree about mountains and lightning ⛈ that's usually what scares me the most, when I'm up on a high Ridge and a thunderstorm moves in. Especially when there's no cover in sight. It sounds like you've had experience in some pretty tough mountains! Where are you from? Thank you for your feedback, and comments! I really appreciate it! 🙏
@@bawattsylthank you i love to travel in remote african , and south american remote areas, also i love Mongolia alot. I,m biologist and behind me is also 15 years of army ..NATO climbing center..i love hiking people community they are all positive happy people. I'm from Slovenia. ua-cam.com/video/ZsqgQE0sGoA/v-deo.html famous photographer love our place to ua-cam.com/video/MaJm0N1vbOs/v-deo.html
@@AA-wd2or wow that's amazing! You've definitely been to and experienced a lot more than me! I'd love to one day visit some of those places! Sounds like you've had a lot of experience! I agree the hiking community is great! Thank you for the sharing the links! Amazing!
Feel the people touched by this tragic loss. I’ve been riding bikes in the Pyrenees for nearly forty years travelling down there. And I still class myself as totally inexperienced. I break a lot of the rules like riding alone. Traversing the mountains at night etc. I’m well aware one day my luck will run out. Sometimes I wonder when I hear these stories, I can’t help but think they are fellow travelers trying to navigate the depths of depression by pushing oneself to the limit in an attempt to relive the weight that is on your shoulders. 🍀
Good coverage by you.
So she seen on cctv on Nov,19 but that Antonio guy gave her a ride on Nov 21 and nobody else seen her after that. So Antonio was the last person with her and he also told the police a story about her going to some place that wasn't in her plans and she didn't tell anyone else about going there. I hope the police really look into that Antonio guy
Amy, sadly her remains were just recently found roughly 10 days ago. I'm working on some update videos, but her case was ruled an accidental death, most likely a bad fall. But you're right in that all the details we had prior to get being found were quite confusing and it also didn't help that the French and Spanish authorities didn't agree on what may have happened.. thank you for watching and your feedback🙏
Why does the police behavior remind me of the Madeleine McCann case? Also a mystery--compounded by incompetence or lack of coordination! Nice photography and presentation, Bryan! You do wonderful work, man!
Thank you Mark! I appreciate that! Yes I was really frustrated here in trying to understand why the French were so unwilling to accept this could have been a fall or injury.. they seemed hell bent on their theory of suicide or her purposely dissappearing.. which i personally don't agree with..🤷♂️
I’ve heard nothing about this in the British news, they only ever seem to report on bias shite. Thanks for the post
Interestingly, the weekend Esther went missing, I read an article about her and Dan on the BBC news website and their fun life in the camper. By the next weekend there were articles about her going missing :-( Terrible. She's been in the news a bit but then I've been searching for updates on her which isn't quite the same thing as making the front pages.
There have been multiple articles on the BBC website since she went missing.
@@BeccaGulliver yes true
Fascinating story! And, don't they look happy?! I love these mysterious stories, but feel sorry for the families!!
I am sure the families don't like mysterious stories !!!!!
NEVER hike alone! Please take it from someone with experience! If you travel together ,hike together! I'm so upset..if only he joined her, maybe things would've ended up differently..not blaming him, just wanting people to be cautious about these things. Especially, since shes a woman..woman hiking alone- an invite to danger ..stranger -danger! Always ! I hope I dont sound like a crazy Karen lol ..my teen daughter wants to go on the biggest hike of her life (taking after her mama) cross county and beyond ,and I'm beyond myself at this point..kids, please listen to your adults lol dont hike alone. Too many of such stories. Tragic stories! I've personally met so many creeps on my hikes ..and I wasnt even alone, but it creeped me out badly, I would just want to return! I grew up in Siberia ,a tundra ,and have travelled quite a bit throughout Russia, Ukraine and nearby..then the states ..I myself have made some mistakes that could've caused me my life..I guess I got lucky! Especially if you're traveling to other countries, where boundaries are different than from your country ! Cultural upbringing, morals, behavioral differences..if you're a foreigner, you're a target number 1..
Listen to your intuition too, it will never betray you!
Be safe
Hi Bryan, i find your videos very interesting filled with compassion and respect for ppl.
May I suggest - could you return to your videos and add updates if there are any- so the video itself will depict latest findings and updates? I would really like that I find myself googling for updates for your older videos
Thank you for bringing these ppl stories to the front
Billy
For Sure, thx. Hopefully we'll get some closure here.
Colgate was nowhere near her when she went missing but Mr. Baloran was. Maybe they need to look into him a little bit more...
Why not look more deeply into the woman with a dog who reported seeing someone?
Why not investigate more deeply the other woman in the store with the chia seeds?
What a DUMB attitude you have.
You seem to be trying to find the negatives…….I always thought she’d had an accident, and she did.
@@theultimatereductionist7592 there is less evidence pointing to Colgate and more for the last person seen with her so of course your comment is the dumber to dumb🤣😂🤣 Baloran didn’t just see her, he interacted with her and even gave her a ride you ding dong. He could be a serial killer for all we know. But I agree with Christine in that it probably was just an accident👍🏻
If the French police think there was no accident possible, they need to say why. Because, literally, anybody can twist an ankle and fall into a crevasse.
Loss of ester doesn't have to in vain .most folks don't realize how dangerous it is out of public .woods used to be safest place to be .not any more .every cabin in the woods is watched by an evil one .there is no safety away from the public
What are you referring to specifically when you say “the evil one”?
"woods used to be safest place to be"
Right. Back when there was no inclement weather. Back when there was zero possibility of injury or fall while hiking. Back when there was no chance at all of getting lost. Back when there were no large, potentially dangerous animals like bears or wolves.
Tell me again, when was this???
I will never understand why people hike alone.
Alone is good
Because even if you have hiking friends people hike at different speeds. She could have been with someone and still gotten lost, fallen, or been killed. They may have solved it if that was the case but not necessarily. Reason #2. Not everyone knows people who like to hike and can take time off to do that with you. So you go alone or stay home.
So she was a lonely lady?????
because humans suck
@@djg5950 Another Lady, was in a group and totally dispperared, still hasn't been found. And there are creepy guys everywhere.
I visited the Pyrenees and fell in love with that area but it is a wild area and isolated. I would never even consider a solo hike there. It is a magical place though. Like stepping back hundreds of years.
It was a big story here in France and the UK , Her body was found august 2021 she had taken a bad fall , Her boyfriend spent nearly a year walking a 1000 kilometres looking for her remains and did eventually find them ,
When weather makes rescue difficult or impossible; well, that’s the exact type of weather in which people are more likely go missing in the wild.
If I ever decided to drop out of my life, I would at least let my family know that I was alive. I do realize different people have different situations.
The weather that day was glorious, sunny and no snow. The poor girl girl had an accident that would killed her on impact, even if she’d been up there with dozens of people. You don’t know what your3 talking about.
@tina she wasn’t suicidal … ?
It's so easy to slip or get lost, all one can do is prepare for the worse just in case it happens
I love hiking and it can be dangerous specially on unknown terrain.
Managed to be in the woods/hills after sunset. No navigation , flashlights dead and knowing There would be possibilities to fall down along the way.
The way back to the car took me around 6 hours.
Went back there couple weeks later to discover that in normal circumstances the way back would take 1,5 hour.
Since that day I always take extra gear.
Even on day trips , I take my tent and supplies to be able to spent the night when something goes wrong.
Be safe and prepared for the worst.
Thing is a lot of supposedly nice guys kill their partners, can’t rule anything or anyone out.
What was really the motive to do so though? They were not married he cannot receive any insurance policy on her? Unless he was like cheating on her and somehow she found out and they got in fight? I don't know do not see reasoning why he would murder her even so just break up if things weren't working out for whatever reason?
@@brettk9316 surely, you must be aware of the fact that not all murders are in need of a motive.
@@brettk9316 Their relationship was quite bumpy actually, they were together for 19years but never married nor had kids. If they did have a fallout when Esther went hiking solo at night, I doubt the boyfriend would admit this as people are a lot more sympathetic to someone considered a widow as opposed to an ex-boyfriend. We will never know all the facts
@@Emma-py8qe I am a close friend of both Dan and Esther. I know about how and why they hiked, as they would phone or text me. I don’t say much as it’s not currently helpful, but I resent the way people write about them, applying their own knowledge to people who by the very nature of the way they lived have proven they’re not like you and me by marching to a different drum, having a very different way of looking at life, and frankly they are people who you’ve never met. So what if they had a bumpy private life? If I lived 24x7 with one person and 5 dogs in an area I couldn’t speak the language, I’d have melt downs too. They chose a difficult path, but were planning their wedding the summer before she went missing. No relationship is perfect, but reports like this unleash people’s control over their imaginations. I know why he was in France and why she was having a last trek before Brexit. You don’t. I’m fed up of all the conspiracy theorists, especially those who are blinded enough to blame Dan for her death. People didn’t know them, and then talk about claiming insurance policies………rubbish! These people are real, not actors in a movie. They have feelings, and what their family and friends are going through (including me) you couldn’t comprehend in a month of Sundays, and yet you coldly put out there your suppositions. You see, the authorities HAVE long since ruled out Dan as he had firm, unshakeable alibis and was 100 kilometres away from Esther. Fact. If you doubt that, you’ve been watching too many James Bond movies. Esther was found by Dan just a few days ago, along with all her kit. On the surface of things, it looks like an accident, but we won’t know for sure until DNA testing of the site has been completed. Have a bit of respect. She loved hiking, unfortunately had an accident and paid for it with her life. Your opinions frankly don’t matter and neither do mine…….it’s Dan, her mum and her dad we should be respectful of. Please.
@@brettk9316 Ever heard of Chris Watts?
Esther has had an accident and been too hurt or isolated to be able to help herself. I find it frustrating that the police will make up a story about what she's done or not done and then abdicate their responsibility in searching for her. I hope that in the near future she will be found and returned to her family.
Agreed………Dan spent the winter getting another van together to search for her himself. My husband and I are friends of the couple. He arrived to start searching woodlands whilst he waited for the snows to fully melt, and knowing the police thought she wasn’t up there, he carried on systematically searching, sending them GPS reports………. until he found her last week. Now he’s the subject of innuendo and suspicion, even though he’s been declared innocent in this accident. Some people have no compassion. It’s a tragic accident……I hope the police will release the results of their DNA search soon. They may even have to use helicopters to get her out from where she is. God bless, my lovely Esther. xx
@@christinemillership1189 paix est son âme , elle semblait une vraie Free spirit 🌺 the good ones always pass on to young 💗
Just a quick comment………Esther died immediately by breaking her spine following a 100 foot fall. Instant death. Snow immediately covered the gulley where her body landed and her equipment lay, but over the months of the winter, her body was transferred by glazier effect travelling her into the middle of a field. The French police were excellent, quiet and diligent but the Spanish were more open and sharing, but it was Dan’s diligence that completely forced the find, as he knew she had to be up there somewhere, knowing her character. She was cremated this week and is back with us, thank goodness.xx
I hope it is not a story similar to that of Gabby Petito and her boyfriend, but for a man to let a woman or his partner go hiking alone seems irresponsible and unloving to me, knowing all the dangers she would be exposed to....🙄😨👎
It sounds like a great idea, but having dealt with badddd depression, severe anxiety, and suic*dal thoughts - sometimes i worry when ppl use adventure, traveling, etc. in an attempt to "get happy".
They've often tried other methods and failed.
They think a fun adventure will cure their depression.
Often, it doesn't. Ppl react differently.
What do you do when youve tried everything, and what you feel as your last effort to be happy with your life, what do you do when that doesn't work?
That being said....
Are we positive she didnt get back in with the guy that gave her a ride?
As a female...I could never hitchhike and catch a ride with a man. And i know many are probably harmless. I just know Im bad at judging character from seeing a persons appearance, and speaking a few words. And history has shown hitchhiking doesnt end well often.
She was definitely braver than I.
I hear you. xo
Wholly agree with on the depression - travelling = "happiness" thing...
Also, being unmarried in a bumpy relationship for ~20yrs and childless in one's late 30's is not what most women/ people would wish for :(
People who are depressed can have manic phases when they feel super-strong and capable of anything; they underestimate danger and overestimate their abilities. [Speaking from personal experience.] Maybe Esther was in this type of mood? If so, it's likely that the dangers of the mountain and the terrible weather led to her death. I strongly disagree with the "intentional disappearance" theory. Very sad for her and the people who love her.
The weather at the time of her disappearance was not bad….it was mild and sunny, which was why she extended her trek. She had weapons, and sophisticated equipment. She was highly experienced and Dan and Esther regularly walked the Alps.
@@christinemillership1189
So why did she disappear?
@@moviemad56 If you’d ever trekked in mountainous regions, you would know that anyone can have a freak accident. The area she walked was potentially dangerous, but just one slip could make the difference……however she knew the area well and the weather that day was fine and sunny. She even photographed bear tracks just before her last message! She could have been defending herself from someone, and fell into a fissure……..and there are many places we cannot easily see. Plus she had a huge backpack……..where’s that gone?
The French Police thought she’d been abducted and the Spanish Police thought she’d intentionally walked away. I spoke to both forces during the search around Christmas, as they wanted to know if she was hiding with me. I’m a close friend, and we usually phoned and texted probably 3 or 4 times a week, but nothing since November. Then the news in July about finding a small part of her remains. At least we now know she’s there, close by to where she sent her last message, so the police and mountaineers can concentrate on one area. I’m still grieving, but my heart really goes out to Dan, Rea, Terry and the rest of the family and her other friends. Never to see that wonderful smile break out like sunshine…….it’s tragic.
@@christinemillership1189
Oh how terribly sad! You have my condolences, Christine. I didn't know any remains had been found.
@@moviemad56 That’s very kind of you. xx
subscribed, you come across well .
Thank you, I appreciate that! Hope you had a great holiday! Thank you again for watching!
It’s incredibly dumb to hike alone period!!! And even dumber to get a ride from a stranger!! Darwin’s theory prevails again.
Your a bit out the ballpark!! People don't always have someone to hike with and yeah it's gotten worse in national forests but you have to live! What do you do wrap yourself in plastic build a steel cube 4 ft thick and stay in it 24/7? I definitely say it's better to go in with someone or group but people are not thinking oh I'm going for a short hike I'll prolly be killed today.... not arguing ya just impractical a lot of times
Some perspective is needed here, in 2017 just over 330 million people visited U.S. National Parks, in that same year there were 3,453 reported search and rescue missions and 182 deaths in National Parks. You’re far more likely to die in a car crash on your way to a park than to actually die IN a park
Is there a timeline? That would be helpful. I agree with the previous commenter, it's just totally foolhardy to hike alone. ANYTHING can happen. People don't realize how easily you can get into trouble: twist an ankle, fall, wild animal, unexpected weather, a run-in with the wrong person, medical emergency. There is NO good reason to go it alone.
Yes, but you try telling that to a determined, independent woman like Esther. You couldn’t stop her. This wasn’t her first hike there, and she and Dan had walked all over the Alps, alone and together. I could get run over by a tractor as I come out of my gateway……..sometimes accidents just do happen. Tragically.
You cowards are missing out on life. I hiked the Pacific Crest Trail alone (over 2,500 miles) and it was spectacular. Enjoy the safety of your couch 😅
@@whiteavalanche8347 What a naive thing to say. The vast majority of humanity never hikes - alone or otherwise. If their ultimate happiness is say, a big family, then that's their grand adventure. It's just as meaningful and exciting for them, as your stuff is to you. They don't envy you at all, and probably think YOU are missing out on life.
@@pm2886 I agree. To each his own.
The guy who gave her a lift..🤔...How did he start to talk to her?.Why would she accept a lift.?.He’s last statement about ‘dangerous lakes’..She’s in or around the lake..We know mountains and lakes could be dangerous.So why state this.?I would like to see he’s statement.Also didn’t he say he see her again later.?Did he suggest they walk to the lake?.He seems to know the area well...
yes, interesting points Who on earth accepts lifts from strangers these days? Unless they were armed etc.
Esther was very friendly and trusting. The world was wonderful to her, and she just didn’t live the kind of life that would make her suspicious. Not everyone is ‘streetwise’.
Ya that was odd
@@christinemillership1189 than she shouldn’t be alone
@@christinemillership1189 If that's true, she should never have been up there alone.
... everybody thinks ..... I will never have a problem ... I am the best .... the strongest .... what Shell be .... and then they are missed ... in one second ..... such films should be shown in school ... every day .... 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏😇🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
The hubris is shocking, I agree.
I'm sorry to say but I this does not need a paranormal explanation. I suspect she had an accident and was eaten by the local vultures. In 2013 a similar fate befell a French woman. Apparently in the time it took for a SAR helicopter to reach her position there was next to nothing left.
Are you directing that comment at me or? I've never suggested paranormal reasons in any of my videos. I just present the facts as I've learned them and generally if I do offer up theories, they are ones like you just said, having an accident, fall, animal predation etc. I agree with you; after reading what the locals said, and learning more about the region, there's just so many areas she could have fallen, and they would never find her due to the terrain. But yes I agree with you, I don't believe anything paranormal happened.
Thanks for watching, and your feedback!
@@bawattsyl apologies if you thought so, it was more aimed at those who have suggested the paranormal.
@@Supergeologist oh no worries at all! I just wanted to clarify just in case:) i agree with your theory on what happened. I think a lot of people often don't realize how vast some of these areas are, and the fact that we often don't find people; while sad, and tragic; is also not surprising. Even searching from the air, it can be very hard to spot people unless they are in a clearing, Ridge, etc and have something bright or reflective. There's been several other types of cases I've studied; where they were lost in the wild for a week and the thing that ultimately saved them was the helicopter seeing their mylar reflective emergency blanket.
In any event, I would never suggest a paranormal theory unless there was actual evidence of that. Otherwise I think it's disrespectful to the families and friends to suggest those things, so I'm definitely in agreement with you on what you said! I appreciate your feedback, and for getting back to me! That was very kind of you! I'm assuming your a geologist? That's incredible! I've always loved geology and archeology!
@@Supergeologist People are allowed they're opinions, however far fetched, it's what debate and opinion making is all about...
No disappearance “needs” a paranormal explanation, as the paranormal does not exist.
It is very peaceful to go running alone, just like it's peaceful to hike alone. And if you lack friends who also enjoy hiking, it might seem better to just go instead of missing out. But it's dangerous.
Make it your business to find and keep friends who will go with you, if hiking is so important to you.
@@pm2886 I have tried, but my friends have spouses, kids, and seemingly endless responsibilities, and they have no interest in participating in my hobbies. Local hiking groups are composed of students, which is not my age group. I stick out like a sore thumb.
@@twistoffate4791 There are plenty of hiking (and other activity) groups for middle aged and older people. You just need to put energy into tracking them down.
@@pm2886 Already did. My problem isn't yours. Have a good night.
@@pm2886 No, it's not easy to find adventurous partners/ friends after certain age. Slow down with the judgemental tone.
I hope she is found safely. I pray for her safe return.
Her remains were found in July 2021. She fell off a ledge and died on impact.
@@ensignmjs7058 I am soory. Her family's loss is great. May God's mercy bless and keep them.
Praying that she returns home safely to her loved ones.
Me too! I can't imagine what they are going through:( praying 🙏 for a positive outcome.
If only people would actually DO SOMETHING to make the world a better place, instead of asking their imaginary friend to do something.
@4:97 Chia seeds?? Wouldn't keep a mouse alive! What hiker would not choose cheese or high carbs snack? Bacon? How about a sandwich? Odd feature in a bizarre case!
Haha mark a lot of hikers will put Chia seeds into their water because it's a supefood and can really help provide fiber, amino acids, helps reduce inflammation, and can just be a good way to give your water a boost.. I'm guessing she wasn't just eating them..at least in my experience in hiking, people will often mix them in with water or add them to one of their backpacking meals as a topper:)
Thank you so much for watching!
I heard that seeds were good to take actually from a bushcraft person
Esther was an extremely strict vegan for health reasons……if she ate a bacon sandwich, cheese or anything like that it would make her very ill.
They were both diagnosed with depression so a wedding was planned, brilliant.
his story telling isn't the best so I bet it didn't happen in that order.
Almost as logical as having a baby to "save the marriage."
Dare I say it I would not be suprised if her fall was intentional (heavy back pack and all)... 😞
@@Emma-py8qe She slipped because she wasn’t wearing the right footwear……..they found her crampon boots in her kit. How she came to not wear them, we will never know. So sad.
One of the problems is that they seen to think that a woman will just take off etc but they don't seem to apply that to men that are missing. Seems to be a patriarchal, chauvinistic attitude. Hope they find out what happened to her. It's always hard on the family not knowing where their loved one is.
I agree with you and try never to imply that. Or if I do its in hoping they are still alive somewhere. I think in this case she most likely had a fall or injury of some kind. I hope they can find some closure soon! Thank you for your feedback, and for watching!
It’s either Colgate or the single male hiker…..unless she did come off the mountain, spent the night in her van….then voluntarily disappeared. It’s possible. Being a woman, alone, is a scary situation.
Prayers for Esther I think without knowing the entire story speculation should be self contained, of course law enforcement have to ask the difficult questions in a situation such as this but it need not be an ordeal for the loved one's left behind.
Totally agree.
Bit of an update here Bryan. Dan (the bf) has released his report on what he knows. U get some idea of how experienced Esther is plus a kit list. He is pushing a run in with a hunter theory.
I’ll bet he is !
She is hidden in a ‘hollow’
Doesn't matter how experience you are..you can't go alone into the pirinees...if you feel bad, if you fall... you're pretty much done..
@@ref145 I live here and go into the mountains alone all the time as do alot of local and international visitors. You must take the necessary precautions such as letting love know where you're going and carrying emergency provisions, survival equipment and location GPS. If you go into the high peaks in the depth of winter and you're not experienced, then you're asking for serious trouble.
Really bad idea to hike alone always have a partner plus a beacon transponder so if you do get lost or hurt they can find you... Until I start watching these shows I didn't realize how many people have gone missing and national parks and Parks from other countries my husband didn't even want me to walk to the store years ago by myself two blocks let alone go for a hike it's just a bad idea to go alone!
🙋 thank U very clear
It is not safe in this time to hike alone. Sad, but true. People need to take heed. It’s dangerous out there.
Prayers that her family gets closure on her whereabouts 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
R. I. P. ESTHER.
Esther & Dan is their channel everyone should subscribe in honor to Esther & Dan finding her❤❤I subscribed ❤
What about the issues of depression?
She was tired of the dude, he resented it, and he disappeared her. The cops always say 'he's not a suspect', rather 'a person of interest'.
She fell. Her body has been found. Are you suggesting that he pushed her?
So, two people both medically considered depressed start traveling together. Gee...what could ever possibly happen.
How about nothing... not al people diagnosed are running around with suïcide or murder thoughts. Lot of us live quite normal lives.
So sad , I hope she is okay
they are very active people, following their dreams, exercise regularly, getting married, and diagnosed with depression. it might bea good idea to not go to the dr. they went to.
So she went on a solo hike in a Foreign Country???? DUMB!!! Thank GOD I am Naturally afraid of things Just like this and have NO Desire to go out like that! People take WAY too many Chances!!! I will say that when you are a Depressed person, you make BAD Decisions, so I feel for her!!!
With all due respect.....why hike in the mountains in November...alone?
There was a bloody good reason to her………I’m not explaining. I just wish she’d not done that last hike.
she was killed💔🙁 smh
poor girl
We just don't know what happened!!!
✨🎶
It's sad but she entered into the wilderness where absolutely anything and a million things could have happened. I hope Mr Colgate gets closure and finds her.
I think foul play is involved
Why are the lakes so dangerous? Why is the area so dangerous? You never explained that in your video.
Blake, I didn't know the details of the terrain at the time. Only what I read but that's often skewed.. and I wanted to get the video out. To answer your question: after hearing from some of the locals, if you look at the pics and maps, there are ridges all over which according to local hikers a person could fall off one of those and be tucked under the Ridge covered by snow or all the trees and shrubs etc as things bloom.. there are many areas where if there's snow or ice on Trail, the person could fall and possibly slide into a lake and because of the way the terrain is, it would be virtually impossible to find the person without teams and teams going in and the area is so fast it could take years. Apparently there are many rocky high and low points along many areas, when covered by snow could easily trip up a hiker new to the trail. Mr Ballen who reported to media outlets after they found him, details some of this. I have links in the description of you'd like further reading. But let me know if you have any other questions.. thank you for watching and your comment!
@@bawattsyl Thanks for responding! and you're welcome! Great content! subbed
I think it’s rare that women are accosted on the trail. I think changing your plans, and not letting someone know your exact trail and ETA, is essential for hiking, esp alone. I think there was a comment below saying she was found and died from a fall.
Yes you're correct.. she had Terrible fall and after months of searching, her long time partner finally found her. Very sad.. but at least they have some closure.. thank you for commenting and for watching! I appreciate the feedback🙏
Where exactly was she found? Had she made it up Pic de Sauvegarde?
He killed her.
Sadly her identified remains have just been found in the Pyrenees mountains the investigation is continuing.
Alguém sabe as coordenadas do lugar, onde ela tirou a última foto? para pesquisar no google maps? Obrigado a quem souber.
So sad....
As far as I know, it was a policeman investigating in that case that was sleeping in the mobile home of the couple. He was tired and way home was too long, as the village where the van was parked in a remote village in the mountains. Nothing suspicious!
Like you said, the weather seems to ALWAYS go bad when people go missing…?? 🤔🤔🤔
Other way around. People go missing when the weather is bad. For THAT reason.
Depression does not mean your susuicidal...I have had Depression all my life and I would never hurt myself...I also would never take antidepressants....that said I WOULD live in a van. I noticed after reading the comments as well as thus video how some people suspect she took her own life because she battled Depression....I disagree...I think she had a terrible accident ..whether her shoes 👞 are to Blame or not...she slipped tumbled and fell to her death...it's very sad...I'm sorry for her loved ones..may God be with her and all of those involved.
Have they talked to Mr Ballen. Im confused about their meeting. Did he meet her after the cctv cameras saw her?
Penny, it's definitely confusing because of how the media convered and let the information out. But to answer simply, yes everyone was interviewed extensively.. what made it even harder was the after a month or so the French and Spanish authorities were split on what they thought happened. Ultimately, now that more info about the area and time has surfaced, and given her character and love for her family etc, it's throught she most likely had a fall or accident of some kind..according to locals there's so many lakes, ledges, and other places, and almost impossible to see places without drones or other special equipment. Hopefully they will find some answers soon🙏 thank you for your question, and for watching!
I think someone in town saw and got her.
No, she slipped and fell.
She was amazing & awesome hiking all's overs !How's truly sads !! She one of best !! Yeah !! He & she we're humans ,tippical y havings argument s as we all s does ;! Thank you stays safe out there's !!
Interesting to hear the narrator describe the exact same situation here which mirrors the Gabby and Brian story.
Traveling FT together in a van for years. “Possible disagreements, partner was very nice and cooperative, not considered a suspect.”
Yeah well in case you didn't hear, they found her body.. she died in a fall Columbo. ✌️👍
Love byrans voice so soothing I fell asleep listening lol
Where u been brother? Hope alls good
Most of these stories seem to always have people getting "seperated" during a hike or hiking alone which makes me suspicious that they were suicidal from the beginning.
Nice does not equal innocent..Look at Chris Watts..He appeared nice, but wasn't really deep down nice.
I Googled & an article dated today, July 24, 2021, stated Dan Colgate was informed that remains were found in the Pyrenees that could be his girlfriend Esther Dingley.
How'd they know it was an accidental fall? Should never rule out a deliberate jump but who could even tell if you didn't have cctv on them. I suppose they didn't find anything odd in her final communications but that's not evidence either as many people who've killed themselves 'seemed ok' prior.
What does it matter if it was an accidental fall or she jumped and THAT'S what killed her? She's just as dead, her body will be found in the same place and she died in the same way, and the police won't have to investigate as it wasn't foul play. The only difference is that some life insurance policies won't pay if the manner of death is from suicide, which I don't think it was anyway. I don't understand the debate...who cares if it was an accident or suicide...I guess I don't understand why it would matter.
Occam’s Razor - she fell off a cliff. Nobody was there to help her. That was the first obvious thing that could have happened. Next, maybe a bear or wolves. Third, some weirdo she met on the trail killed her. That’s how I see it.
Just in; the remains of Esther Dingley have been found. An accidental death is now the leading hypothesis