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 ofsearch 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 atMoriarty Lake, where there is next to no cell service.

Martin andSandulakdecided to stay in their vehicle for warmthin hopesthey would be found,but on Saturday morning, with their fuel in short supply,theydecided 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 upand brought them to the search and rescuecommand post, where theyreunited with family members.

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