Arizona Man Detained in SWAT Raid Denies Connection to Nancy Guthrie Abduction

21 February 2026 U.S. News

TUCSON, Ariz. — Luke Daley, a 36-year-old man from Tucson, was detained during a SWAT operation last week amid the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. Authorities released Daley without charges after holding him for several hours, and no official accusations have been made linking him or another local ex-con, Kayla Day, to the case.

The operation, which took place on February 13 in the Catalina Foothills neighborhood, involved dozens of law enforcement vehicles and officers. The raid also included a standoff near a Culver’s restaurant where a Range Rover was surrounded. Despite the high-profile nature of the operation, Pima County officials have not confirmed any direct connection between Daley or Day and Guthrie’s abduction.

Kayla Day, 32, was already in custody at the Pima County Adult Detention Complex on unrelated charges for allegedly skipping court dates prior to the raid. Both Daley and Day have criminal records, leading to intense scrutiny and speculation on social media platforms, even though law enforcement has not implicated either individual.

The search for Nancy Guthrie has entered its third week, with federal and local agencies actively investigating all leads. The Federal Bureau of Investigation continues to coordinate efforts alongside the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. DNA evidence collected from Guthrie’s home is currently undergoing analysis at a crime lab, but officials have not disclosed any breakthroughs.

Residents of Tucson and surrounding areas remain anxious as the case unfolds. Authorities have cautioned the public against jumping to conclusions or spreading unverified information, emphasizing that multiple suspects remain possible. The Arizona Department of Public Safety has urged anyone with credible information to come forward.

Legal experts note that detaining individuals during raids is a common investigative tactic but does not imply guilt. Former FBI supervisory agent James Gagliano, speaking on national news, highlighted that law enforcement agencies often conduct such operations to gather evidence and rule out suspects.

Meanwhile, community leaders and advocacy groups stress the importance of respecting due process. The American Civil Liberties Union has reiterated its stance against public vilification of individuals not formally charged, warning that online harassment can undermine justice.

As the investigation continues, the public can track official updates through the Pima County Sheriff’s Office website and other authorized channels. Authorities remain committed to resolving the case and bringing closure to Nancy Guthrie’s family and the Tucson community.

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Priya Desai covers technology, platforms and data privacy, with a focus on how AI, social media and digital policy are reshaping work, speech and daily life.
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