Sam Benastick disappeared on October 19 after embarking on a backcountry trip in British Columbia and failed to return, prompting concern from local authorities and community members, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in British Columbia.

On Tuesday at approximately 11:30 a.m., Northern Rockies RCMP received word that Benastick had been found. Two individuals on their way to the Redfern Lake trail for work encountered a man who they quickly identified as Sam Benastick when they approached him.

The men transported Benastick to a hospital where authorities confirmed his identity as the missing man. According to the RCMP, Benastick recounted to police that he initially stayed in his car for a few days before walking to a nearby creek and mountain side, where he camped for roughly 10 to 15 days. Subsequently, he moved down into the valley, setting up a camp and shelter in a dried-out creek bed. It was there that he finally encountered the two men who rescued him.

"Finding Sam alive is the absolute best outcome. After all the time he was missing, it was feared that this was not going to be the result," commented Cpl Madonna Saunderson of the British Columbia RCMP Communications. Authorities have extended their gratitude to various teams and volunteers who were involved in the search efforts, including the Fort Nelson and North Peace Search and Rescue teams, Canadian Rangers, and local volunteers with extensive knowledge of the backcountry.

"The time, effort, and resources put into locating Sam from the moment he was reported missing was immeasurable. We are grateful for the positive result," added RCMP officials.