Missing couple lost in Nanaimo Lakes area since Wednesday found alive

A Nanaimo couple and their dog, missing since Wednesday, have been found alive, according to Nanaimo RCMP.

Cody Martin, 32, Tamara Sandulak, 29, and their dog Rex were reported missing on Nov. 12 after they failed to return from a day of fishing in the Nanaimo Lakes area the day before.

Since Thursday, RCMP along with dozens of search and rescue volunteers have been scouring the area around Nanaimo Lakes and Echo Lake by land and air. 

Volunteers were discouraged from assisting with the search as the area is being actively logged, and a recent snowfall made for treacherous driving. 

On Saturday morning, police announced the couple had been found and though they were cold and hungry, they were in good health. 

"This is the outcome everyone was hoping and praying for," said Nanaimo RCMP Const. Gary O'Brien. 

O'Brien said the couple's truck broke down at Moriarty Lake, where there is next to no cell service. 

Martin and Sandulak decided to stay in their vehicle for warmth in hopes they would be found, but on Saturday morning, with their fuel in short supply, they decided it was time to search for help. 

After travelling a short distance, they managed to get enough cell reception to connect with a family member.

The RCMP's Air 8 helicopter was immediately dispatched to their location, picked them up and brought them to the search and rescue command post, where they reunited with family members. 

"We would like to acknowledge all of the dedicated volunteers and especially each and every search and rescue volunteer who provided expertise and commitment to this arduous search effort," said O'Brien.