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Missing Florida Man Rescued From Sand-Plant Mud After Days Trapped

Investigators say they will not pursue trespassing charges, citing his mental health.

Overview

  • Andrew Giddens, 36, was found alive buried up to his shoulders in quicksand-like mud at Vulcan Materials’ Grandin Sand Plant near Melrose after about 10 days missing.
  • Specialized crews from multiple agencies worked roughly three hours using ropes, ladders, pallets and boards to free him on unstable ground.
  • Officials said he had gone several days without food or water in freezing conditions and was taken to a hospital, where he is expected to recover.
  • The search intensified after deputies located his abandoned car near the site, and rescuers noted he had sunk below the surrounding grass, making him hard to see.
  • Vulcan staff guided first responders to the location, and friends told deputies he had been depressed following a recent breakup.