Search underway for missing hiker in remote northeastern B.C.

Oct 21, 2024 | 12:42 PM

RCMP in British Columbia say a search is underway in northeastern B.C. for a man who is overdue to return home from a ten-day camping trip in the remote wilderness in the Rocky Mountains.

Sam Benastick’s family reported him missing on Saturday after he had not returned from a trip that started on October 7, in Redfern-Keily Provincial Park, located nearly 250 km northwest of Fort St. John.

Missing hiker Sam Benastick. Photo courtesy Northern Rockies/Fort Nelson RCMP.

Mounties say Benastick is an avid hiker and camper and last updated his family on his whereabouts on October 8, one day into his trip.

His family say it is out of character for him and is concerned for his well-being.

Police say Benastick had a tarp, a black Osprey backpack with red strings, and other camping supplies with him when he started his trip.

Search and rescue personnel as well as police dogs are helping in the extensive search efforts, according to authorities.

Anyone who has been in the Redfern-Keily Provincial Park since Oct. 7, or anyone with information related to Benastick’s whereabouts, is asked to contact the Northern Rockies RCMP at 250-774-2700.

by Erika Rolling