Missing Florida Man Found Stuck in 'Quicksand'

Deputies say the man went days without food and water before being rescued.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A 36-year-old Jacksonville man named Andrew Giddens was found alive after being stuck in 'quicksand' at a Putnam County sand plant for several days. Giddens had been reported missing since Valentine's Day, and his car was discovered on February 23. Rescue crews from the Palatka Fire Department and Putnam County Sheriff's Office located and extracted Giddens on February 25 after an extensive search.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of getting stranded in remote, isolated areas and the importance of prompt reporting and search efforts when someone goes missing. The Putnam County sand plant where Giddens was found is an industrial site that poses significant risks to trespassers.

The details

Footage released by the Putnam County Sheriff's Office shows officials searching the Vulcan Sand Plant for Giddens, who had gone days without food or water before being rescued. Authorities have not provided details on how Giddens became trapped in the 'quicksand-like' conditions at the industrial site.

  • Giddens was reported missing on Valentine's Day (February 14, 2026).
  • Giddens' car was discovered on February 23, 2026.
  • Giddens was rescued on February 25, 2026.

The players

Andrew Giddens

A 36-year-old man from Jacksonville, Florida who was reported missing and later found trapped in 'quicksand' at an industrial sand plant.

Putnam County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that conducted the search and rescue operation to locate and extract Giddens from the Vulcan Sand Plant.

Palatka Fire Department

The fire department that assisted the Putnam County Sheriff's Office in the rescue effort.

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What’s next

Authorities have not indicated if any charges will be filed against Giddens for trespassing at the private industrial site.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of being cautious when exploring unfamiliar, potentially dangerous areas, and the critical role that prompt reporting and coordinated search efforts can play in locating missing persons.