In a remarkable tale of survival, Sam Benastick was found alive after a month in the remote wilderness of British Columbia. His family, who stayed over 20 days at the Buffalo Inn in Pink Mountain during the search, finally reunited with him at a local hospital, marking the end of an exhaustive and emotional ordeal. Benastick, an avid outdoorsman, was reported missing on October 17 when he failed to return from a 10-day camping trip in Redfern-Keily Park.
The discovery was made by two workers on a service road who found Benastick supporting himself with two walking sticks and a cut-up sleeping bag wrapped around his legs for warmth. Although he was in poor condition, suffering from frostbite and smoke inhalation, he was alive.
"He was in pretty bad shape but he’s alive," said Mike Reid, the general manager of the Buffalo Inn, who had been in contact with Benastick's family throughout their stay.
The search for Benastick involved multiple teams, including the Canadian Rangers and local volunteers. Initially, Benastick stayed in his car for several days before heading to a creek near a mountain, where he set up camp for another 10 to 15 days. His resilience and resourcefulness were key to his survival in the harsh conditions.
Upon his discovery, Benastick was taken to a local hospital where police confirmed his identity. His family, who had endured weeks of uncertainty and fear, experienced a profound moment of relief and joy upon being reunited with him.
"Finding Sam alive is the absolute best outcome. After all the time he was missing, it was feared that this would not be the outcome," stated Cpl Madonna Saunderson.
Reid, who accommodated the Benastick family at the inn and offered them free meals during their stay, described their reunion as an "amazing moment." After being discharged from the hospital, Benastick and his family made a stop at the Buffalo Inn to thank Reid for his support before embarking on their journey home.
Benastick's uncle, Al Benastick, expressed admiration for his nephew's endurance.
"Imagine being out there, being that cold, for that long," he commented.
