PALM COAST, Fla. — Flagler County deputies rescued a man Thursday evening after he became lost in Princess Place Preserve during heavy rain and rising water.

The man called 911 after being lost for more than an hour and standing in ankle-deep water. Communications Specialist First Class Ashlie Hicks stayed on the line, providing deputies with GPS coordinates and relaying updates as conditions worsened.

Deputies located the man’s vehicle and then entered the woods despite knee-high mud, severe weather and heavy rain. With the help of a drone, Commander Robert Tarczewski and Deputy Marcus Dawson found the man, who by then was in waist-deep water.

The man was brought to safety and evaluated by medical personnel. Sheriff Rick Staly commended deputies and dispatchers for their persistence and teamwork, noting their actions ensured a safe outcome under difficult circumstances.

Source: Flagler County Sheriff’s Office