Andrew Giddens: Man rescued from ‘quicksand’ mud days after he went missing

A man has been rescued after being trapped in shoulder-deep mud, unable to move for several days.

Andrew Giddens from Jacksonville in Florida had been missing since Valentines Day, with no clues as to his whereabouts until his car was discovered on February 23.

But it took another two days and a widespread search before the 36-year-old was found by an employee on the grounds of the Vulcan Materials Company.

Mr Giddens was discovered, stranded in the mud near a borrow pit, where soil or gravel had been excavated, hidden vbelow the grass.

He was able to talk to the employee but they could not pull him out, local media reported.

Emergency services took two hours to rescue Mr Giddens from the mud which has been likened to “quicksand”.

Conscious that they did not want to get trapped themselves, emergency crews were forced to resort to using ladders and digging to get the distressed man out after trying to use a rope failed to extract him.

He was flown by air ambulance to a trauma centre in a critical condition.

“This rescue shows the power of mutual aid, training, and dedication. We are grateful for the bravery and professionalism of everyone involved,” the Palatka Fire Department stated.

It is unknown exactly how long Mr Giddens was stuck in the mud but the Palatka Fired Department said on Facebook that it was at least several days, during which he was without food or water and endured freezing temperatures.

Friends and family told local media Mr Giddens had been depressed about a recent break-up.

“Due to his mental health, no charges are being considered at this time. We hope that he is able to recover from his ordeal both physically and mentally,” the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office said.

Mr Giddens is expected to make a full recovery.

If you or someone you know needs help, phone SANE Australia Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).

Lifeline: 13 11 14.