Sheriff: Still No Person of Interest in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance
No suspect or person of interest has been identified in the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” host Savannah Guthrie, according to a statement released Wednesday by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.
“At this point, investigators have not identified a suspect or person of interest in this case,” Sheriff Chris Nanos said in the statement posted on X. “Detectives continue to speak with anyone who may have had contact with Mrs. Guthrie.”
He added that investigators are working closely with the Guthrie family and warned that “the sharing of unverified accusations or false information is irresponsible and does not assist the investigation.”
The sheriff’s statement came as online speculation and social media rumors have intensified around the high-profile case — a trend law enforcement officials have repeatedly cautioned against as the search continues.
Investigators have confirmed that DNA samples recovered from Nancy Guthrie’s Tucson home belonged to her, and the FBI has joined the investigation to provide technical and analytical support.
Sheriff’s Office officials have said the home showed signs of forced entry and that the case is being treated as a crime, with investigators believing Nancy Guthrie did not leave voluntarily.
Authorities are also reviewing reported ransom notes tied to her disappearance, though officials have declined to confirm whether any such notes are authentic.
Local media outlets that received emails purporting to be ransom demands turned them over to investigators, who are now working with the FBI to assess their credibility.
At a law enforcement briefing aired live Tuesday on Newsmax, Nanos and FBI officials emphasized the urgency of the search.
Nancy Guthrie, who has limited mobility, was last seen Saturday evening and was reported missing Sunday morning after she failed to attend church. Her daily medication was reportedly left behind at her home, raising serious concerns about her health and safety.
“We have someone’s life who is in jeopardy,” Nanos said. “Job No. 1 is we’ve got to find her.”
The FBI confirmed it is assisting by analyzing cellphone data, video footage, and other digital evidence and urged anyone with information to contact authorities at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Despite hundreds of tips, officials said none have yet led to the identification of a suspect.
Conservatives have pointed to the case as a reminder of the dangers of rush-to-judgment narratives often fueled by social media and sensational coverage.
Law enforcement officials stressed that speculation not only risks harming innocent people but can also derail active investigations.
“This is not a TV show,” one investigator noted privately. “Real lives are at stake.”
Authorities said the next public update is expected Thursday unless significant developments occur sooner, and they continue to urge the public to focus on facts, not rumors, as the search for Nancy Guthrie continues.
