Tucson, Arizona – Law enforcement agencies in Arizona continued their intensive search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie, host of NBC’s “Today” show, entering the tenth day of the investigation. A significant law enforcement presence descended on a residential area near Guthrie’s home late Friday and early Saturday, resulting in the brief detention and subsequent release of a second individual for questioning.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that the activity, involving a large contingent of sheriff’s deputies and FBI agents, including SWAT and forensics teams, centered around a residence approximately two miles from Nancy Guthrie’s home. Roads were temporarily closed as authorities conducted their search. While no arrests were made, officials described the operation as “tracking leads” related to the ongoing investigation. , Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that no one is fully cleared as a suspect until an arrest is made.
This latest development follows the earlier questioning and release of a man identified only as Carlos, who was detained in Rio Rico, Arizona, earlier this week. The FBI and Sheriff’s Department have been meticulously reviewing security footage from residents within a defined radius of Guthrie’s home, specifically requesting footage from January 1st to February 2nd – the day after she was reported missing – in an effort to identify any suspicious persons or vehicles.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on and reported missing on . Investigators believe she was forcibly taken from her home. Evidence discovered at the scene includes traces of blood on the front porch, raising concerns about her well-being. Authorities have also acknowledged receiving purported ransom notes, though deadlines for payment have passed without resolution.
The FBI released images and video footage on of a masked individual tampering with a security camera at Guthrie’s residence on the night of her abduction. The footage, less than a minute in combined length, depicts a person dressed in dark clothing and a mask, attempting to obscure the camera’s view with foliage. Law enforcement officials believe this individual is a key figure in the case.
Authorities have expressed urgency due to Guthrie’s medical condition. She requires daily medication and has a pacemaker, as well as a history of high blood pressure and heart issues, according to dispatcher audio. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has been actively utilizing the Ring Neighbors app to solicit video footage from residents in the area, seeking any potentially relevant information.
As of , the FBI reported receiving over 13,000 tips, while the Sheriff’s Department has taken more than 18,000 calls related to the case. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department also announced the recovery of “several items of evidence,” including gloves, which are currently undergoing analysis.
Investigators are also examining a video circulating online that shows a man with a backpack approximately five miles from Nancy Guthrie’s house shortly before her abduction. It remains unclear whether the backpack seen in this video is the same one carried by the individual depicted in the security camera footage from Guthrie’s home.
The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement agencies continuing to pursue all available leads. The case has drawn significant media attention, given Savannah Guthrie’s prominent role at NBC News. While authorities remain tight-lipped about specific details to avoid compromising the investigation, they have assured the public that all resources are being dedicated to securing Nancy Guthrie’s safe return.
Sheriff Nanos addressed reports of tension with the FBI, clarifying that the investigation is a collaborative effort. He also explained the use of rapid DNA testing, noting that while it provides quick results, it is not admissible in court. This suggests investigators are utilizing all available forensic tools to gather information and build a case.
