A young woman has publicly acknowledged her mistake in leaving a friend behind during a challenging hike on Pico Paraná, Brazil’s highest mountain in the southern region. The incident led to the friend’s disappearance, prompting an extensive search operation by fire services in early January 2025.
Thayane Smith, identified as the woman who hiked with Roberto Farias Thomaz, 20, on a trail near Campina Grande do Sul, Curitiba, expressed remorse over the situation. She stated that the decision to separate from Thomaz on Thursday, January 1, ultimately proved to be a critical error.
The case has drawn significant public attention, fueled partly by Smith’s controversial social media activity following Thomaz’s disappearance, which has sparked widespread debate online.
Hiker’s admission and initial account
Smith confirmed her error in an interview with a local broadcaster, stating, “That was my mistake. I talked to the family, and I admit my mistake.” She acknowledged her fault in allowing Thomaz to continue without her, though she noted other individuals were present and believed he could not get lost. “I don’t know what happened,” she added.
When asked about immediate actions, Smith emphasized the need for calm and trust in rescue operations. “Now it’s about maintaining balance and waiting for the firefighters to deliver the final result and do their job. We can’t do anything,” she commented, reflecting the difficult waiting period for news regarding Thomaz.
Controversy erupts over social media posts
The incident gained significant traction due to Smith’s online behavior following her friend’s disappearance. While search operations for Roberto were actively underway, Smith made several social media posts that drew strong criticism.
One particular post stated, “Lesson learned, never again hike with someone who isn’t experienced on trails, doesn’t share your lifestyle, and lacks the stamina for it.” This comment, made as Thomaz remained missing, was widely perceived as insensitive by the public.
Another post featured a photo with the caption, “Interrogations, investigations, wow 2026 lol. Happy New Year,” accompanied by a laughing emoji. These updates, made shortly after Thomaz went missing on the morning of Thursday, January 1, intensified public scrutiny and sparked widespread anger.
Ongoing search efforts and police investigation
Authorities continue their extensive search and rescue efforts for Roberto Farias Thomaz on Pico Paraná. Firefighters from the Paraná Fire Department are actively involved, deploying specialized teams in the vast and challenging terrain. The operations are expected to continue throughout the week, intensifying the urgency of locating the missing hiker.
The PCPR (Paraná Civil Police) has also initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Thomaz’s disappearance. Officials are gathering evidence and statements to reconstruct the events that led to the separation of the hikers and the subsequent vanishing of Thomaz. The police investigation runs concurrently with the ongoing search.
Family members of Thomaz have created an official social media page to centralize information and appeal for public support. This platform, which has rapidly gained over 250,000 followers, serves as a crucial point for updates and calls for assistance from experienced mountaineers.
The community has been urged by Thomaz’s family to exercise caution regarding speculative comments and false information circulating online. They emphasize that the official investigation is the sole responsibility of the authorities and that premature accusations hinder the focus on finding Roberto.
Family appeals for caution and support
Raul Farias Batista, Roberto’s cousin, specifically requested the public to refrain from making accusations against Smith. He stressed that the primary objective is to locate Roberto and that diverting attention to blame detracts from the crucial search efforts. The family maintains hope that Roberto is “just lost and alive in the forest.”
The family has also taken legal steps, appointing an attorney to manage the situation and address potential legal issues arising from the case. They have issued warnings about fake profiles and potential scams requesting donations or Pix transfers in Roberto’s name, advising vigilance against such fraudulent activities.
Roberto’s background and community appeal
Roberto Farias Thomaz’s social media profile indicates a background in various safety and emergency response fields. He is listed as a work safety technician, civil firefighter, rescue paramedic, financial investment consultant, and NR-11 instructor. This extensive experience in safety and rescue operations has led many to hope for his survival and ability to endure the challenging mountain conditions. The family continues to appeal for aid from experienced hikers and mountaineers familiar with the Pico Paraná region, highlighting the vastness and difficult access of the search area. They express strong faith that Roberto will be found, reinforcing the collective hope of the community for his safe return.
Lessons from the challenging Pico Paraná trail
This incident underscores the inherent dangers and unpredictable nature of high-altitude trekking, especially in remote regions like Pico Paraná. Experienced hikers consistently advise thorough preparation, adherence to safety protocols, and the importance of never separating from a group, regardless of perceived individual capabilities or familiarity with the terrain. The events serve as a sobering reminder of the critical need for vigilance and collective responsibility when engaging in outdoor adventures.
