KEY POINT
- A man stopped in Rio Rico, Arizona, was questioned and subsequently released in connection with the investigation.
- FBI released video shows a masked individual outside Guthrie’s home, raising concerns about potential foul play.
- Authorities maintain a $50,000 reward for information leading to Guthrie’s safe return or the identification of a suspect.
TUCSON, Ariz. — Authorities have released a man who was briefly detained in connection with the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84 year old mother of NBC “Today” show co anchor Savannah Guthrie, as investigators continue an intensive search in southern Arizona.
Federal agents have also released surveillance footage showing a masked person outside Guthrie’s residence the night she vanished.
The search for Nancy Guthrie has reached a critical stage, with federal and local law enforcement analyzing new surveillance footage and pursuing leads in Arizona.
Despite extensive efforts, Guthrie’s whereabouts remain unknown, heightening urgency around the investigation.
Guthrie was reported missing on Feb. 1, 2026, after failing to attend church and not responding to family members. Authorities discovered evidence at her Catalina Foothills residence near Tucson suggesting she may have been forcibly taken.
The case has attracted national attention due to her daughter’s high profile media presence and the unusual circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
The FBI and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department are coordinating search efforts, employing digital and physical investigative resources. A reward of $50,000 is being offered for actionable information, and officials have appealed to the public for tips.
Recent Developments
On Tuesday, a man was stopped during a traffic check in Rio Rico and questioned about Guthrie’s disappearance. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed the man was released after law enforcement determined there was insufficient evidence to hold him.
Earlier, the FBI released video footage showing a masked figure tampering with the doorbell camera outside Guthrie’s home in the early hours following her disappearance.
While the footage does not show direct contact with Guthrie, it provides investigators with potential evidence of premeditated activity.
John Miller, a former FBI agent and criminal investigations expert, emphasized the significance of surveillance evidence in missing person cases: “Disabling or manipulating recording devices is often a deliberate act, which can help investigators understand the suspect’s planning and movements.”
Dr. Marie Diaz, professor of criminal justice at Arizona State University, noted the importance of community involvement: “In cases with limited eyewitnesses, public tips are critical. Even small pieces of information can redirect investigators and accelerate progress.”
Savannah Guthrie has repeatedly urged the public to provide tips to law enforcement. “Please contact authorities if you know anything no detail is too small,” she said in a recent statement.
Sheriff Nanos emphasized that investigators are carefully reviewing all leads. “We continue to follow up on credible information. Our priority remains locating Nancy Guthrie safely,” he said.
Investigators are expected to continue analyzing digital evidence, including cellphone and traffic camera data, and to interview potential witnesses. Authorities are also seeking additional surveillance from neighboring homes to supplement existing footage.
Officials caution that while these steps advance the investigation, the case remains unresolved. Law enforcement continues to focus on gathering verifiable evidence and determining Guthrie’s current condition.
The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie remains a matter of urgent concern for authorities and the public alike. With FBI involvement, new surveillance evidence, and a substantial reward in place, officials stress that ongoing community cooperation is essential to resolving the case. The investigation remains active, with the primary goal of ensuring Guthrie’s safe recovery.
