Sarasota, Florida – The Sarasota community is deeply concerned as the search for 67-year-old Jose Andino, who has been missing since August 5, 2024, continues. Andino was last seen heading to work at Beall’s Distribution Center in Bradenton, Florida, but he never arrived. The disappearance occurred amidst Hurricane Debby, raising fears that he may have been stranded due to the storm.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has officially classified Andino as a missing person and urges anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward. He was last in contact with his daughter, Scarleth Andino, on the afternoon of August 5th, around 1:30 p.m., just before his planned commute from Sarasota to Bradenton.
Scarlet Andino took to Facebook, sharing her concerns: "This is my dad, Jose Andino, male, 67 years old. We last spoke on August 5th at 1:30 p.m. on his way to work, and he did not make it in. He has been missing for the last 3 days, has not gone to work or home. We are worried due to the storm he might have been stranded. If anyone has seen him, please contact me."
Andino was driving a 2005 red Toyota 4Runner, and his usual routes included Lockwood Ridge to 44th Ave East or heading north on U.S. 301. His daughter has asked that anyone with information contact her directly at 941-549-2892.
The Sarasota community has rallied online, sharing posts and urging anyone who might have seen Andino or his vehicle to report it immediately. Flor Fina Leon-Ortiz, a concerned resident, also shared on Facebook, "The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has upgraded Mr. Andino as a missing person. If located, or if you know of his whereabouts, please contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office."
The ongoing search efforts reflect the urgency and concern shared by Andino’s family and the community. With each passing day, the need for collective vigilance and assistance becomes more critical as the family holds out hope for his safe return.