Tucson Woman Missing: Search for Nancy Guthrie Intensifies

FBI Intensifies Search for Missing 84-Year-Old Nancy Guthrie, Ransom Demand Emerges

TUCSON, Ariz. – The search for Nancy Guthrie, 84, the mother of “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has entered its second week, with the FBI intensifying efforts in the Catalina Foothills area of Tucson. Authorities believe Guthrie was abducted from her home in the middle of the night on February 1.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has maintained a constant presence at Guthrie’s home, with deputies remaining on-site at the family’s request for security purposes. Investigators have been focusing on roads, washes and pull-offs between Guthrie’s residence and major roadways leading out of Tucson, according to the FBI. Canvassing of nearby gas stations and review of surveillance footage from surrounding neighborhoods are also underway.

The investigation took a new turn on Sunday, February 8, when authorities searched a septic tank and inspected a manhole behind Guthrie’s property. Officials have not disclosed what prompted the search of these locations, or if anything was recovered.

Adding a layer of complexity to the case, a $6 million Bitcoin ransom demand has surfaced. According to reports, an alleged deadline of 5 p.m. On Monday, February 9 was given for the payment. While the family is reportedly prepared to meet the demand, authorities have not yet confirmed the authenticity of the ransom note. One individual was briefly detained in connection with a separate, fake ransom demand but has since been released, stating to reporters, “I didn’t do anything… I’m innocent.”

The FBI released images and video on Tuesday, February 11 of a person wearing a ski mask and gloves at Guthrie’s door the night she disappeared. The agency is urging anyone with information to come forward.

The neighborhood where Guthrie lives is characterized by thick brush, long, winding, narrow streets, and considerable distance between homes. Notably, the area lacks streetlights due to local ordinances aimed at reducing light pollution, potentially complicating the search efforts.

Over 4,000 calls have been made to a tip line established by the Arizona sheriff’s department in the last 24 hours, officials said on Wednesday, February 11. The FBI is actively following up on these leads as the search continues.

Neighbors have expressed concern over the handling of the investigation, noting the intermittent sealing and reopening of streets around Guthrie’s home. “Why haven’t they closed it off the entire time? Because they’re opening it up…,” one neighbor commented, questioning the investigative approach.

The case remains active and ongoing, with authorities working to determine Guthrie’s whereabouts and bring those responsible for her disappearance to justice.