Desperate search for missing potholer goes on

Teams searching underground gorges in the South of France believe an experienced potholer who has been missing for more than a week is still alive. Eric Establie disappeared while exploring the underground gorges in Ardèche after a rock fall a week ago Saturday.

Spéléo Secours Français

Two British divers have been trying to reach Establie, who was last heard from this weekend.

Rescuers think he could be safe in an air pocket which is just above an underground river nearly 200 meters beneath the surface.

Using special equipment, rescuers were able to detect rocks being hit inside the caves Saturday night, which they are certain was Establie.
 

Spéléo Secours Français

“We don’t have any more signs, but we’re not going to wait,” said Eric Zipper of Spéléo Secours, who is leading the rescue efforts. They believe Establie is now keeping quiet to preserve any food he may have left.

Swiss divers left several cases behind the rock fall, which contained food, oxygen and a radio, which have not been opened or moved.

“At the end of the week, we believe, we will get him out," said Olivier Lanet, the most optimistic of the rescuers.