No Suspects Identified in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance Case, Arizona Authorities Confirm
Investigators examining the mysterious disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, have not identified any suspect or person of interest in the case, Arizona authorities confirmed on Wednesday, February 4. The Pima County Sheriff's Department issued this statement while actively pushing back against rampant speculation and unverified claims circulating on social media platforms.
Authorities Issue Strong Warning Against Speculation
As rumors about potential suspects began spreading across various social media channels, investigators delivered a firm caution to the public. The Pima County Sheriff's Department emphasized that detectives continue to interview anyone who may have had contact with Mrs. Guthrie while working closely with the Guthrie family throughout the investigation.
"While we appreciate the public's concern, the sharing of unverified accusations or false information is irresponsible and does not assist the investigation," the department stated clearly in a social media update. Authorities later reinforced this warning, describing such speculation as "irresponsible" and potentially harmful to investigative efforts.
Case Being Investigated as Criminal Activity
Law enforcement officials believe Nancy Guthrie was taken from her Tucson, Arizona home over the weekend. She was reported missing on Sunday after failing to attend her regular church service, raising immediate concerns among family and community members.
Investigators have discovered a small amount of blood inside the home, which is currently undergoing forensic testing. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos revealed that evidence collected so far has not pointed toward any specific suspect. "It could be one, it could've been more, I don't know," Nanos commented regarding the possibility of multiple individuals being involved in the disappearance.
Last Known Movements and Timeline Details
According to Sheriff Nanos, Guthrie was last seen on Saturday night after having dinner with her daughter Annie Guthrie and son-in-law Tommaso Cioni, who reside nearby. Cioni reportedly dropped Nancy Guthrie off at her home around 9:45 PM and ensured she entered safely before departing.
Investigators have definitively ruled out the possibility that Guthrie wandered away from her residence. "She does not have any cognitive issues," Nanos clarified, noting that her mobility is somewhat limited due to age-related factors.
The timeline of events raises significant alarm among investigators:
- In the early hours of Sunday, Guthrie's pacemaker reportedly lost contact with her iPhone
- The iPhone was later discovered left behind at her home
- When she failed to appear at church Sunday morning, a concerned fellow worshipper contacted her family
- This prompted the official missing person report that initiated the investigation
Health Concerns Heighten Search Urgency
Sheriff Nanos has stressed the critical urgency of the search operation, noting that Guthrie relies on daily medication for various health conditions. Authorities warn that her medical situation could become critical without proper treatment, adding pressure to locate her quickly and safely.
Family at the Center of Intensive Search Efforts
Nancy Guthrie is the mother of prominent television journalist Savannah Guthrie, who has temporarily stepped away from her assignment covering the Winter Olympics in Italy to be with her family during this difficult time. Guthrie has three children—Annie Guthrie, Savannah Guthrie, and son Charles Guthrie—as authorities continue exhaustive efforts to locate her safely.
The investigation remains active with multiple law enforcement agencies collaborating to follow every possible lead while maintaining regular communication with the concerned family members who await answers about their mother's whereabouts.
