Dad Who Vanished on Way to Work Found Dead in SUV 1 Week Later After Flooding from Tropical Storm Debby Receded

Mar. 15, 2025

Jose Andino.Photo:GoFundMe

GoFundMe

Jose Andino, 67, was reported missing on Aug. 6 after he failed to show up to work the previous day,the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Officesaid in a news release on Aug. 13.

Prior to the discovery, authorities said they conducted multiple searches with K-9s and aviation assistance near the creek, which is where Andino’s cellphone was last pinged.

On the day of Andino’s disappearance, policepostedabout flooding in the area on social media and said that they were conducting “water rescues throughout the day.”

They advised people to keep the streets clear, writing, “To ensure our first responders are available for emergencies and water rescues, we urge everyone to stay off the roads and avoid preventable incidents. Your cooperation is crucial in helping us focus our resources on those in need.”

In an interview with CBS affiliateWTSPbefore his body was found, Jose’s daughter, Scarleth, said that she called him that afternoon to share her location and also warned him of the flooding.

At the time, Scarleth shared that her father was attempting to travel from their home in Sarasota to his work in Bradenton, which is roughly a 30-minute drive.

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Scarleth grew concerned when she woke up the next day and saw that he had never come back home.

“I checked outside, and his car wasn’t there, and that’s when I started like, ‘That’s not right,’ " she told the outlet.

Scarleth has now launched aGoFundMe campaignfor funeral costs. As of publication, more than $14,000 has been raised.

She wrote in the description that he “passed away after his car was swept into Philippi Creek as he was on his way to work.” Scarleth also thanked the community and the police for their support.

“This week has taught me how loved my dad was and I am grateful to everyone,” she wrote.

source: people.com