Fort St. John — Mounties are releasing new information in the search for an avid outdoorsman who has disappeared in the wilderness of northern British Columba.
Sam Benastick was reported missing by his family on Oct. 19 after he was already two days overdue from a camping trip in Redfern-Keily Provincial Park in the northern Rocky Mountains, more than 200 kilometres northwest of Fort St. John.
Investigators have now been able to determine that Benastick was last known to be at the trailhead in the Redfern Lake trail area, where he began using his red Honda dirt bike.
Police have also released a picture of a large black Osprey backpack (85 litres).
Police say he last updated his family on his whereabouts on Oct. 8, one day into his 10-day trip.
"This is out of character for Benastick and his family are concerned for his well-being," said the Northern Rockies RCMP, describing the missing man as an experienced hiker and camper.
Search and rescue crews and police dog services have been called in to assist in the "extensive" search, according to Mounties.
Police say Benastick had a tarp, the black Ospey backpack with red strings and other camping supplies with him when he set out on the trip.
Northern Rockies RCMP are asking if anyone has seen Sam Benastick or someone riding a similar red dirt bike or any information regarding the location of Sam to please contact them at: 250-774-2700.