A remarkable survival story has emerged from British Columbia, where 20-year-old Sam Benastick was found alive after spending over five weeks lost in a remote provincial park. Benastick was reported missing on October 17 when he failed to return from a planned 10-day fishing trip. Search and rescue teams described his survival as ‘nothing short of miraculous.’
Benastick was discovered on a service road, using two walking sticks for support and wrapped in a cut-up sleeping bag for warmth, as he faced harsh winter conditions with temperatures dropping below -20°C and heavy snowfall. His ordeal began on October 7, during his camping trip in the challenging terrain of Redfern-Keily Provincial Park, located 250 kilometers northwest of Fort St. John, B.C.
The search for Benastick involved over 120 volunteers, RCMP canine units, and aerial support, although the official search was called off on October 28. His family, who stayed in a local inn during the search, remained hopeful throughout the ordeal. Mike Reid, the inn’s manager, noted the family was deeply connected to the search efforts.
After being found, Benastick’s mother shared a photo of him in a hospital bed, expressing relief at his survival but also noting his frustration at not having caught any fish during his time away. Uncle Al Benastick described his nephew as an avid outdoorsman who suffered from frostbite and smoke inhalation.
Local authorities reported that Benastick spent several days in his vehicle before moving to a creek and camping in a dried-out creek bed, where he stayed until he was rescued. Cpl. Madonna Saunderson of the RCMP acknowledged the many questions surrounding his disappearance but expressed gratitude for his safe return.
Family members expressed their pride in Benastick’s survival skills and thanked the community for their support during the search. Benastick’s grandmother humorously mentioned buying him a GPS for Christmas, highlighting the family’s relief and joy at his return.
This incredible story showcases the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support in times of crisis.
