Missing Hiker Survives for 9 Days on Bugs, with a Broken Arm, Before being Rescued

A California man’s story of survival is shocking even seasoned rescuers. Samuel Vengrinovich, 44, vanished for nine days in the unforgiving Himalayas—emerging alive after enduring broken bones, freezing nights, and a diet of insects.

Vanished Without a Trace

The drama began on June 6. Samuel, originally from Fremont, California, was hiking near Dharamsala, India, when he became separated from his group in treacherous weather. He left his phone and backpack behind at their camp, planning a quick hike to the snow line. It was a decision that nearly cost him his life.

“Sammy sent us a text saying he’d heard the Dalai Lama speak that morning,” his sister, Natasha Vengrinovich, told reporters. “The next day, he said he was going on a hike. That was the last we heard from him.”

Into the Storm Alone

Natasha revealed Samuel encountered other trekkers along the trail, but pressed on alone as the weather turned. He disappeared into the foggy heights, heading toward a notoriously dangerous part of the mountain. When he didn’t return, panic spread.

His family launched a frantic search effort, setting up a GoFundMe to hire local trackers and mount a rescue. “We are deeply concerned for his safety,” Samuel’s father Vlad wrote. “These funds are for organizing search teams, travel, anything to find him.”

Nine Days of Hell

For over a week, Samuel wandered the brutal Himalayan landscape—disoriented, starving, and with a broken arm. He had no supplies, no water, and no way to call for help.

“He ate insects just to stay alive,” Natasha told The Jerusalem Post. “He was following the river, hoping to make it back to the village. We honestly thought we’d lost him.”

Miracle Rescue

On June 15, hope turned into a miracle. Samuel was found alive—exhausted, battered, and dehydrated, but breathing. His family called it nothing short of divine intervention.

“To say it’s a miracle is an understatement,” Natasha said. Samuel is now hospitalized in India as doctors treat his injuries and malnutrition.

The Journey Isn’t Over

The Vengrinovich family is still reeling from Samuel’s ordeal. “The incredible teams who searched day and night need to be paid, and Samuel faces a long road to recovery,” the family said in a public appeal. As of June 16, donations to their GoFundMe have topped $66,000.

“Now it’s about getting Sammy healthy and home,” Natasha said. “We’re just grateful he’s alive.”