Investigators have confirmed that the longtime gardener at the Guthrie property has regained consciousness after several days in intensive care. The man, in his late seventies, was found unresponsive near a rear service path shortly after Nancy Guthrie was reported missing. Although the incident was first considered a possible workplace accident, medical evaluations later revealed head injuries consistent with blunt-force trauma, prompting authorities to examine whether outside involvement could be a factor.

Because he remained unconscious during the early and most critical phase of the investigation, detectives were unable to question him while timelines and leads were still developing. His familiarity with the property and daily routines made his silence a significant gap in the case. Now that he has awakened, investigators are preparing to speak with him as a potential witness once doctors determine he is medically stable.

Sources say that shortly after regaining consciousness, the gardener reportedly uttered, “The person who took Nancy was…” before trailing off. The statement was informal and made prior to any official questioning. Authorities have documented it as a spontaneous remark but caution that individuals recovering from head trauma and sedation may experience confusion or fragmented memory.

Detectives are waiting for full medical clearance before conducting a structured interview, emphasizing that the incomplete comment does not confirm an abduction or identify a suspect. Officials stress that the case remains active and that all conclusions will be based on verified evidence rather than speculation. Further updates are expected once formal questioning takes place.