A hiker who had been missing for five days without a phone or food has been found alive, revealing his fear of not surviving the ordeal. Roberto Farias Tomaz, 19, went missing while hiking to Pico Paraná, the highest mountain in southern Brazil, after getting separated from his friend on January 1. He trekked about 20km through the woods alone until he reached a farm in Cacatu, Antonina, where he borrowed a phone to inform his sister of his survival.
Rescued hiker Roberto, who lacked a phone and survived on limited supplies, was taken to the hospital for examination. In an emotional interview with RPC, a TV Globo affiliate, he confessed his belief that he might not make it through. Despite hallucinations, he kept his faith alive, drawing strength from thoughts of his family.
Roberto expressed gratitude to the extensive search effort involving over 100 firefighters and 300 volunteers. Initially unsure if rescuers were still looking for him, he persevered with the belief that his destiny guided him. Medical assessments revealed only minor injuries, and Roberto is currently recovering, appreciative of all those who participated in the search.
His family, based in Pinhais near Curitiba, reunited with Roberto and conveyed their relief and gratitude for the successful rescue mission. State officials commended the search teams and volunteers for their dedication in locating the missing hiker. The Governor and the State Secretary of Public Security acknowledged the collaborative efforts that led to Roberto’s safe return.