Investigators wrangled video from Nancy Guthrie’s Google Nest camera out of ‘backend systems’

It’s not yet clear how the FBI collected the video. Experts said in some cases it’s possible to collect data from the complex infrastructure that has enabled cloud-based cameras.

Shortly after Nancy Guthrie disappeared, Pima County, Arizona, Sheriff Chris Nanos said that a camera affixed to her door had been disconnected, that she did not have a subscription that would have saved video and that investigators were trying to work with a tech company on the difficult forensic task of recovering any video.

Against those odds, they were successful. More than a week after her reported disappearance, that video was revealed, marking the most significant public development in a case that has captured the nation.

An internet-connected Google Nest camera captured an unidentified person in a mask and gloves and carrying a backpack and a gun approaching Guthrie’s home just before she disappeared. FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau was able to collect the video from “backend systems.”