01/16/2026
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FBI Now Involved: New Information in the Search for Missing 14-Year-Old Gideon Andrew Ferguson
Firewire spoke directly with Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell regarding new developments in the search for missing 14-year-old Gideon Andrew Ferguson. Sheriff Campbell confirmed that new evidence has emerged, prompting a higher level of scrutiny of Ferguson’s gaming consoles and social media activity.
Sheriff Campbell stated that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has offered assistance, which Campbell says he accepted, specifically for digital forensics support.
“The FBI has the capability to fast-track digital evidence from applications, gaming consoles, and online platforms—particularly games commonly used by children, such as Fortnite and Roblox,” Campbell said.
According to Sheriff Campbell, Ferguson has left little to no physical evidence to aid investigators. The FBI’s ability to expedite access to digital systems, including retrieving deleted messages and password-protected communications, is expected to be extremely valuable to the investigation.
Sheriff Campbell also noted that ground search efforts are ongoing, with crews continuing to search wooded areas. However, evidence is increasingly suggesting that Ferguson may not be in the woods. In an earlier conversation, Sheriff Campbell stated that between 50 and 100 personnel were actively searching and that, in his opinion, if Ferguson were in the woods, he likely would have been located by now. Despite this belief, Campbell emphasized that no stone will be left unturned, and ground crews will remain in place as a precaution. Search teams will continue working into the evening until conditions become too cold and will resume again early tomorrow morning.
While the investigation appears to be shifting toward a stronger focus on online activity—and the possibility that Ferguson may have left willingly or was contacted by someone online—Sheriff Campbell was cautious not to draw conclusions at this time. However, with the FBI’s digital forensics team now involved, the direction of the investigation is clearly expanding into that area.
Sheriff Campbell emphasized that an Amber Alert has not been issued because state law requires confirmation of an abduction or kidnapping. At this time, he stated, the criteria necessary to activate an Amber Alert have not been met.
Continue to follow Firewire for the most accurate and up-to-date information on this case. In matters involving missing persons, Firewire releases information only when it is confirmed directly by law enforcement.
Iredell County Sheriff
Shepherds Fire - Rescue
Mooresville Fire-Rescue
Iredell County Rescue Squad, Inc
ISAR - Iredell Search and Rescue
Iredell County Emergency Management
FBI – Federal Bureau of Investigation
FBI - Charlotte
