Missing hiker found

RCMP say that a missing hiker report could have turned fatal due to cryptic information and delay in reporting.

On December 30, 2024 at approximately 7:15 am, Port Alberni RCMP received a report of a missing hiker. A woman had been hiking and mushroom picking in the area off Cameron Main Service Road and was last seen at 2:30pm the previous day. Friends searched throughout the day and night but did not find her. 

RCMP engaged Alberni Valley Rescue Squad for their assistance. Police learned that the delay in reporting their friend missing was due to the woman having a warrant for her arrest; friends of the missing woman were attempting to avoid interaction with police. 

The woman was located in the late afternoon of December 30, 2024 having spent the night outdoors without appropriate clothing or outerwear. The woman was transported to hospital, her warrant was addressed later in the day by RCMP.

Search and Rescue Managers, and RCMP had to analyze cryptic details of this report to determine where to search, which took time away from finding the hiker quickly. 

We should always strive to do the right thing, but it is even more important to be honest when someone’s life is at risk, said Sgt. Chet Carroll

Port Alberni RCMP want to thank volunteers at Alberni Valley Rescue Squad for their efforts in this rescue.