A hiker who had been missing for over six weeks was discovered in the Canadian wilderness earlier this week, as confirmed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
The Northern Rockies RCMP received notification on Tuesday at approximately 11:30 a.m. that Sam Benastick, aged 20, had been located. Benastick had been reported missing by his family on October 19.
Concern arose when Benastick failed to check in following his departure on a 10-day solo camping trip on October 7, amidst severe winter conditions with temperatures dropping below 4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Benastick was spotted by two individuals en route to the Redfern Lake Trail for work. They observed him walking towards them, utilizing walking sticks for support and a cut-up sleeping bag to keep his legs warm.
The men promptly escorted Benastick to the hospital, where authorities confirmed his identity as the missing camper.
According to Benastick, he had initially sought refuge in his car before trekking to a creek and the mountainside where he camped for 10 to 15 days. Subsequently, he descended into the valley, establishing a camp and shelter in a dried-out creek bed before eventually catching the attention of the two men.
RCMP Cpl. Madonna Saunderson expressed relief at finding Sam alive, deeming it the best possible outcome given the duration of his disappearance. The RCMP extended gratitude to various jurisdictions that provided mutual aid support during the search, along with the Canadian Rangers and knowledgeable backcountry volunteers.
Saunderson acknowledged the immense time, effort, and resources invested in locating Sam since the initial missing person report, emphasizing the favorable resolution of the situation.
Following his disappearance, Benastick's sister established an organization to assist with the expenses incurred during the search and rescue efforts.
