Missing US senior found safe near Nanaimo after lighting fire to signal for help

A missing senior from the United States has been found safe after a concerning few days on Vancouver Island.

According to the Nanaimo RCMP, the 83-year-old man was reported missing on May 2nd after renting a vehicle in Seattle and driving to Nanaimo. His family had not heard from him since the weekend, prompting concern and a search effort.

Police confirmed on May 5th that the man had been located “safe and sound” in a remote area near Nanaimo Lakes Road.

Police say the man’s vehicle had become stuck off the roadway. In an effort to draw attention to his location, he lit a small fire, which was later spotted by forestry workers heading to work early that morning.

That quick thinking ultimately helped lead to his discovery.

The man was taken to hospital for a medical assessment as a precaution and his son has since been reunited with him.

Police say the family is grateful for the support shown during the search, thanking those who helped spread the word and assist in locating him.