Christopher McCandless Reportedly Fled ‘Into The Wild’ To Escape Abusive Parents

Christopher McCandless reportedly left his home and hiked into the Alaskan wilderness in an attempt to flee his abusive parents. Although he reached his destination and managed to survive more than four months, the 22-year-old man eventually succumbed to the elements.

Throughout his journey, McCandless kept a detailed diary. His story was later immortalized in a book and movie, which were both titled Into the Wild.

In April of 1992, Christopher McCandless drained his bank account, donated his life’s savings to charity, and then set out on an epic journey. Unfortunately, he was ill-prepared for the Alaskan wilderness.

Although Christopher’s family was unaware of his plans, witnesses said he was determined to live off the land. According to reports, he made his journey with few supplies and limited survival skills.

As stated in his diary, the young man set up camp in a remote area outside Fairbanks. Although he found shelter inside an abandoned bus, food was far more scarce than he expected. Christopher managed to hunt and kill a moose on day 45. Unfortunately, his attempt at smoking the meat was unsuccessful and it was unfit for consumption.

Christopher’s diary suggests he considered moving on. Unfortunately, heavy rains made the river impassible. On day 94, the young man admitted that he was growing increasingly weak due to starvation. On day 100, he wrote that death had become a “serious threat,” and that he was “literally… trapped in the wild.”

Five months after his journey began, Christopher McCandless was found dead. Officials believe he starved to death, as he weighed only 67 pounds. In addition to Christopher’s diary, officials found a handwritten farewell note, which read, “I have had a happy life and thank the Lord. Goodbye and may God bless all.”

Although he seemed to be at peace at the time of his death, Christopher’s sisters believe he was attempting to flee his abusive past. Carine McCandless said her brother “wanted to really separate himself from a situation he felt was very toxic.”

As reported by ABC News, Christopher’s father, Walt, had a quick and violent temper. Carine admitted that her mother suffered the worst of the abuse. However, Carine said she and her siblings were also subjected to Walt’s violent outbursts.

Prior to the notorious journey, Carine received a letter — which detailed Christopher’s plans to cut ties with his parents.

“Once the time is right, with one abrupt, swift action I’m going to completely knock them out of my life. I’m going to divorce them as my parents… I’ll be through with them once and for all forever.”

Christopher McCandless’ motive for disappearing into the wild may never be fully understood. However, his sisters believe his troubled childhood contributed to his decision.

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