The British Antarctic Survey announced on Monday that the melting ice contributed to uncovering his remains, allowing them to be returned to his family after 66 years of disappearance. On July 26, 1957, during the southern hemisphere winter, Bill went out with three others and sled dogs to conduct surveys on a glacier. During the mission, he removed his skis to assist the dogs and fell into an ice crevice. His companions attempted to save him with a rope tied to his belt, but the rope broke, leading to his fall again and death.
In January 2025, scientists working at a Polish base on King George Island found his remains and belongings among the rocks due to the retreat of the ice cover. His identity was confirmed by comparing DNA samples with those of his brother and sister.
Professor Jane Francis, the director of the survey, confirmed that “Dennis was a pioneer in exploring Antarctica under harsh conditions and contributed to its initial research.”
