Columbia Valley RCMP is pleased to confirm that 22-year-old Catherine Gibbons and 24-year-old Damon Brodeur, reported to the media Thursday morning as missing persons, have been located alive after being stranded for a week.

An aircraft of RCMP Air Services, spotted the missing woman’s vehicle, while conducting an aerial search of a remote area along Quin Creek Forest Service Road, in the Rocky Mountains east of Wasa.

“A RCMP officer and a search and rescue volunteer onboard the aircraft spotted the couple’s SUV, notably stuck in a creek crossing filled with snow and ice,” stated Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey, spokesman for the BC RCMP. “An outstretched orange tarp, a large arrow and the word ‘HELP’ each etched in the snow within close proximity to the abandoned vehicle, ultimately led to the discovery of the man and woman who had taken up shelter in a nearby cabin.”

The couple has since been safely extracted from the backcountry and have been taken to an area hospital as a precaution for a full medical assessment. The pair, who reported being stranded for approximately one week, were rescued with their dog. All were in good spirits.

Columbia Valley RCMP wish to extend their gratitude to each the Columbia Valley Search and Rescue, the Civilian Air Search & Rescue Association (CASARA), the BC Conservation Officer’s Service and Cold Stream Helicopters for their invaluable assistance.

RCMP also wish to thank the media and the general public for their assistance.

Lead image: The missing pair, relieved to see rescuers arriving. Photos courtesy RCMP

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