Teen Influencer’s Fundraising Trip Turns Troubling

Ethan Guo, an American teen influencer, has found himself in a difficult situation while on a mission to raise money for cancer research. Since June, he has been stranded in a remote section of Chilean Antarctica.

Authorities report that Guo landed his small aircraft without the proper permissions, allegedly providing misleading flight planning information during their investigation.

Last year, Guo, then just 19, made news with his ambitious goal to become the youngest person to fly solo to all seven continents while raising funds for pediatric cancer research.

Although he had planned to reach Antarctica, he reportedly misled officials about his flight details. Prosecutors indicated that while he was supposed to stay over Punta Arenas, he instead flew south toward Antarctica in his Cessna 182Q, a versatile single-engine aircraft.

On June 29, Guo faced charges for giving false information to ground control and landing without authorization. However, those charges were dropped on Monday following a deal between his attorney and the Chilean prosecutor.

To avoid further examination, Guo must donate $30,000 to the Children’s Cancer Foundation within 30 days. Additionally, he is required to leave Chile as soon as arrangements can be made and is banned from re-entering for three years.

After the judge’s decision, Guo expressed relief in a text to The Associated Press. He has spent the last six weeks at a military base, not because he had to stay there under duress, but due to the harsh winter weather that made traveling difficult. He has been unable to fly his Cessna.

Chilean prosecutor Christian Christo noted that authorities did not possess the means to facilitate Guo’s exit. Meanwhile, Guo mentioned he has been in communication with his lawyer.

“I remain in Antarctica waiting for approval for my departure flight,” he told the Associated Press. “I sincerely hope they will give it to me soon so that my plane and I can continue with my original mission.”

Prosecutors have indicated that Guo will be responsible for covering all costs related to the security of his aircraft and personal maintenance while staying at the military facility, as well as the expenses for his eventual return home.