Abandoned Car Leads Sheriff to Missing Florida Man Stuck in Quicksand for 6 Days
For most people, inescapable quicksand is definitely in their top 10 nightmare scenarios. But in Florida, a man survived this nightmare. For an incredible six days.
Giddens’ family reports they hadn’t seen him since Valentine’s Day. Then, Putnam County Sheriff’s deputies found his abandoned car on February 23rd. It was near a Vulcan Materials Company site east of Melrose, Florida. What’s more, the police had caught him trespassing at a similar plant two years ago.
Deputy Holmes put two and two together, requested a welfare check on Giddens’ Jacksonville home, and requested to search the plant—complete with air support. What the officer found was terrifying.
Six days trapped in “quicksand”
An employee spotted Giddens in a mud pit. He’d sunk all the way up to his shoulders and become trapped. He was able to speak and confirm his identity, even though he’d been trapped in the muck for six days. During a cold snap that had included freezing overnight temperatures.
First, rescuers tried to throw a rope to Giddens. When they didn’t work, they called in reinforcements. With the help of the Mellrose Fire Department, Palatka Fire Department, and Clay County Rescue, authorities essentially built a road across the dangerous “quicksand.” They laid down ladders, pallets, and EMS backboards so rescuers could safely walk out to Giddens and hoist him out.
It wasn’t until 8:30 p.m. that the rescuers were able to free Giddens. He was flown to the hospital in critical condition, but the sheriff’s office hopes he “is able to recover.”
Giddens’ family reports that he was despondent after a break-up. Though he was technically trespassing, the sheriff’s office says, “Due to his mental health, no charges are being considered at this time.”
The police department adds, “We also want to encourage others that feel like there is no hope, that resources are available by calling 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. We also ask family members and friends to continue to check on loved ones, especially during times of high stress and anxiety.”
