Hope Remains as Search for Nancy Guthrie Enters Third Week
The search for Nancy Guthrie, mother of Savannah Guthrie of NBC’s Today show, continues to captivate the nation as it enters its third week. Despite a growing sense of urgency and the acknowledgment from authorities that the case could take “years” to solve, hope persists, fueled by a determined sheriff and a daughter’s unwavering belief.
Sheriff Nanos’ Plea and the Expanding Investigation
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has issued a direct appeal to anyone holding Nancy Guthrie, stating, “Let her go. No questions asked. We’ll worry about prosecuting… another day. Right now, it’s about… let’s get Nancy back.” He reiterated his commitment to finding her, saying, “We’re not giving up on you. We’re gonna discover you. Just… stay safe as best you can. We’ll find you.”
The investigation has revealed several key pieces of evidence. Surveillance footage shows an armed, masked individual tampering with Nancy Guthrie’s doorbell camera before her disappearance. Investigators have also discovered DNA at the property that does not belong to Nancy or her close contacts. Gloves were found approximately two miles from her home, and are currently undergoing DNA analysis.
FBI Increases Reward to $100,000
The FBI has significantly increased its reward to $100,000 for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s recovery or the arrest of anyone involved in her disappearance. New details released by the FBI’s Operational Technology Division describe the suspect as a male, approximately 5’9” to 5’10” tall, with an average build, wearing a black, 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack.
Savannah Guthrie’s Emotional Appeal
Savannah Guthrie has made repeated public appeals for her mother’s safe return. In a recent Instagram post, she shared a clip expressing her continued hope, stating, “It’s been two weeks since our mom was taken. And I just wanted to come on and say that we still have hope. And we still believe.”
She added a powerful message to anyone with information, saying, “It’s never too late. And you’re not lost or alone. And it is never too late to do the right thing. And we are here. We believe. And we believe in the essential goodness of every human being. And it’s never too late.”
Cooperation from the Guthrie Family
Sheriff Nanos has emphasized the full cooperation of the Guthrie family throughout the investigation. He stated that he remains in close contact with Savannah, and has had some contact with her husband and sister.
The Long Road Ahead: A Sheriff’s Perspective
Sheriff Nanos has cautioned that the investigation could be protracted, potentially lasting “weeks or months or years.” He acknowledged the emotional toll of the case, describing it as “exhausting, these ups and downs,” but reaffirmed his commitment to finding Nancy Guthrie and the person responsible for her disappearance.
Did you know?
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is currently analyzing over 32,000 leads in the case.
FAQ
Q: Is the Guthrie family considered suspects in this case?
A: No, Sheriff Nanos has stated that family members, including Savannah Guthrie’s husband and sister, are not suspects.
Q: What is the current status of the DNA evidence found at Nancy Guthrie’s property?
A: Investigators are working to identify the source of the DNA, which does not belong to Nancy Guthrie or her close contacts.
Q: What is the reward amount for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s recovery?
A: The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000.
Q: What identifying features has the FBI released about the suspect?
A: The suspect is described as a male, approximately 5’9”-5’10” tall, with an average build, wearing a black, 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack.
If you have any information regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, please contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department or the FBI.
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