The search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of “Today” host Savannah Guthrie, continues nearly two weeks after she was abducted from her Tucson, Arizona home on February 1. Scrutiny is growing regarding the handling of the investigation, with questions directed toward Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos and his department.
The Investigation So Far
Sheriff Nanos has been the primary law enforcement communicator since Guthrie was reported missing. The investigation has involved reports of ransom notes demanding millions of dollars in cryptocurrency. Authorities discovered blood drops at the scene, later confirmed to be Nancy Guthrie’s.
The FBI released surveillance video on Tuesday of a person approaching Guthrie’s door wearing a ski mask, holstered gun, and backpack. This led to over 4,000 tips from the public. Investigators briefly detained a 36-year-old man following a traffic stop, but he was released after a search of his home yielded no evidence.
On Friday night, authorities served a search warrant at a home in Tucson and examined a parked Range Rover, but no arrests were made. Investigators are now seeking additional photos, videos, and clues, and anticipate detaining and questioning other individuals in the area.
DNA collected from Guthrie’s residence that did not match her or close contacts is currently being analyzed. The suspect is described as a male, approximately 5’9” to 5’10” tall, with an average build, and was seen wearing a black, 25-liter ‘Ozark Trail Hiker Pack’ backpack.
Challenges in the Investigation
Sheriff Nanos acknowledged the challenges of the case, stating, “I’m not used to everyone hanging on to my every word and then holding me accountable for what I say.” Critics have pointed to the department’s initial decision to release the crime scene and a reported instance of the sheriff attending a college basketball game during the investigation.
The Sheriff’s Department has sought to dispel rumors of a divide between local and federal investigators regarding evidence handling. President Trump commented on the case, stating, “It was a local case originally…but ultimately where the FBI got involved, I consider, you know, progress has been made.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Nancy Guthrie last seen?
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31 and reported missing on February 1.
What is the current status of the investigation?
As of Saturday, February 14, 2026, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.
What is being done to uncover Nancy Guthrie?
Investigators are analyzing DNA evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and following up on over 13,000 tips received from the public.
Given the complexities of the case and the ongoing investigation, what further steps might law enforcement take to locate Nancy Guthrie and identify those responsible?
