ABC World News Tonight with David Muir Full Broadcast - Feb. 19, 2026

ABC NewsAbout 5 min readFeb 20, 2026Watch original
THE SUMMARYAI-generated

Key Concepts

  • Jeffrey Epstein Case & Prince Andrew: Arrest of Prince Andrew, investigation into misconduct in public office, ties to Jeffrey Epstein, and implications for the British Royal Family.
  • Severe Weather: Tornado warnings, severe storms, fires across multiple US states, potential nor'easter, and blizzard conditions.
  • Nancy Guthrie Disappearance: Ongoing investigation, focus on DNA evidence and potential suspects.
  • Iran-US Relations: President Trump’s ultimatum to Iran regarding a nuclear deal and potential military action.
  • Dinosaur Discovery: Identification of a new dinosaur species, Spinosaurus Morabilus, in the Sahara Desert.
  • US Women’s Hockey & Figure Skating: Gold medal wins against Canada in hockey and Alyssa Lou’s gold in figure skating.

Breaking News & Royal Scandal: Prince Andrew’s Arrest

The broadcast opened with breaking news regarding the arrest of Prince Andrew, brother of King Charles, in connection with the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. This arrest, believed to be the first of a British royal in nearly 400 years, stems from suspicions of misconduct in public office related to his ties with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Sources indicate the Royal Family received no prior notice of the arrest, during which Andrew was held for approximately 11 hours. Police searched his home as part of the investigation.

The US Justice Department’s recently released files allegedly show Andrew may have shared confidential information with Epstein while serving as a UK trade envoy. Virginia Giuffre, who previously accused Andrew of sexual assault, settled a civil suit against him. King Charles released a statement emphasizing that “the law must take its course.” President Trump commented on the arrest, expressing sadness for the Royal Family. James Longman, reporting live from London, highlighted Andrew’s diminished status within the Royal Family and the potential for a criminal conviction. Newly released emails reveal continued contact between Andrew and Epstein even after Epstein’s release from prison, with Andrew stating, “we are in this together and we’ll have to rise above it.”

Severe Weather Across the United States

Multiple states are facing severe weather conditions. Tornado warnings were in effect during the broadcast, alongside reports of devastating fires, particularly in Kansas where nearly 300,000 acres have been destroyed. Red flag warnings are in effect from New Mexico to Missouri, with wind gusts up to 70 mph. A blizzard impacted the upper Midwest, causing numerous accidents. A potential nor'easter is forecast to impact the Northeast from Washington DC to Boston, bringing rain, snow, and potential icing conditions. Lee Goldberg detailed the forecast, predicting 3-6 inches of snow in New England and icing in parts of Pennsylvania and Connecticut.

The Disappearance of Nancy Guthrie: A Focused Investigation

The investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie is intensifying, with authorities focusing on two key pieces of evidence: DNA found in her home (a mixture of male and female DNA) and video footage. The DNA is not from a member of Guthrie’s family. Investigators are working with Walmart to identify purchasers of a backpack seen in the video. The FBI is collaborating with authorities in Sonora, Mexico, as a potential route for Guthrie’s abduction is being considered. Two men previously questioned have been released, and investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Rising Tensions: Trump’s Ultimatum to Iran

President Trump issued a 15-day ultimatum to Iran, demanding a new nuclear deal or facing “bad things” happening. A US official revealed a meeting in the Situation Room where options ranging from limited strikes to larger-scale military action were discussed. The US is increasing its military presence in the Middle East. Iran’s Supreme Leader responded defiantly, warning of potential repercussions for the US.

Paleontological Discovery: Spinosaurus Morabilus

Scientists announced the discovery of a new dinosaur species, Spinosaurus Morabilus, in the Sahara Desert. The dinosaur, roughly the size of a T-Rex, lived approximately 95 million years ago and possessed a brightly colored crest on its head. The findings were published in the journal Science.

US Olympic Success: Hockey and Figure Skating Gold

The US women’s hockey team defeated Canada in a thrilling overtime victory to win the gold medal. Team captain Hillary Knight set a record with her 15th Olympic goal. Megan Keller scored the game-winning goal. Additionally, Alyssa Lou won gold in women’s figure skating, marking the first American gold in that event since 2002.

Other News Briefs

  • A suspect stole an ambulance and rammed it into a Homeland Security office in Idaho, attempting to set the building on fire.
  • The slavery display at President’s House in Philadelphia has been restored following a court order.
  • A massive banner featuring President Trump was displayed at the Department of Justice.
  • The US Commission of Fine Arts approved President Trump’s planned expansion of the White House ballroom.
  • Actor Peter Green, known for his role in Pulp Fiction, died from an accidental gunshot wound.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

This broadcast covered a wide range of significant events, from a high-profile arrest in the Jeffrey Epstein case with potential ramifications for the British monarchy, to escalating geopolitical tensions with Iran, and severe weather impacting large portions of the United States. The broadcast also highlighted positive news with the US Olympic team’s success in hockey and figure skating, alongside a remarkable paleontological discovery. The overarching theme was one of ongoing investigations, potential crises, and moments of national pride.

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