A young hiker from British Columbia, Sam Benastick, has been found alive after enduring more than 50 days in the harsh wilderness of Redfern-Keily Provincial Park. The 20-year-old was reported missing on October 17 following a 10-day camping trip that began on October 7. His disappearance sparked a massive search effort, but despite the efforts of over 120 volunteers, search and rescue teams, and RCMP canine units, the official search was called off on October 28. However, the file remained open as family members continued to search for him. Benastick was discovered on a service road on November 26, supporting himself with makeshift walking sticks made from branches and wrapped in a cut-up sleeping bag for warmth. His family received the good news from search teams who had been looking for him in the rugged terrain. Benastick’s mother shared a photo of her son giving a thumbs up from his hospital bed, expressing relief and gratitude. He is currently recovering in a Fort Nelson hospital, suffering from frostbite and smoke inhalation. His uncle described the survival as ‘unbelievable’ given the extreme cold conditions, with temperatures plummeting below -20 degrees Celsius. Search and rescue volunteers had faced incredibly challenging winter conditions with significant snowfall. Benastick’s survival is being hailed as a miraculous outcome, and his family is grateful for the community’s support during the search. His grandmother expressed her elation at his safe return and reflected on his knowledge and preparation for outdoor adventures. As the family begins to heal from this traumatic experience, they look forward to sharing Sam’s incredible story of survival.
