A traffic stop in Arizona may bring new answers in search for Nancy Guthrie, 84, whose disappearance has gripped nation.
The desperate search for Nancy Guthrie may have reached a critical turn.
On Tuesday night, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department announced that a person was detained for questioning in connection with the disappearance of the 84-year-old mother of Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie.
The individual was stopped south of Tucson, Arizona, during a traffic stop.
Authorities said they are preparing to search a location tied to the detainee, though it remains unclear whether this person is linked to previously released front door photos.
Nancy vanished from her Arizona home on Jan. 31. What began as a missing person case quickly escalated. By Feb. 2, Sheriff Chris Nanos declared the disappearance a crime after investigators uncovered what he described as “concerning” evidence inside the home.
He stated publicly that he believes Nancy “did not leave on her own.”
Since then, the case has drawn national attention — not only because of Savannah’s public role, but because of the family’s emotional and very public pleas.
Over the weekend, Savannah and her siblings, Camron and Annie, released a video message directed at whoever may have their mother. Sitting side by side, they expressed their willingness to comply with demands after receiving what authorities described as a ransom note.
Deadlines mentioned in the note were set for Feb. 6 and Feb. 9.
“We received your message, and we understand,” Savannah said in the video. “We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”
Earlier, the siblings had asked for proof that Nancy is still alive. “She’s 84 years old. Her health, her heart, is fragile,” Savannah said in a separate emotional message. “We need to know without a doubt that she is alive.”
The FBI has joined the investigation and is working alongside local authorities. Last week, the agency announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy’s recovery and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke said agents are working “day and night.”
As Savannah remains in Arizona with her family, her Today colleagues have voiced support. “We are a family, and we show up for each other,” former co-anchor Hoda Kotb said on air.
For now, the Guthrie family — and a watching nation — wait for answers, holding onto hope that Nancy will come home safely.
