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Arizona authorities rule out family in Nancy Guthrie disappearance
Police in Pima County, Arizona, have formally cleared relatives of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie, after social media speculation targeted the family. The investigation into Guthrie's abduction remains active, with no suspects identified nearly three weeks after she vanished.
Police defend family amid online harassment
The Pima County Sheriff's Office issued a statement on Tuesday calling the family "co-operative and gracious" and describing them as victims. "To suggest otherwise is not only wrong, it is cruel," the statement said. Sheriff Chris Nanos told NBC News the attacks on the family were unjustified, emphasizing that "kindness matters" and that law enforcement has a duty to "stand up and be that voice for our victims."
Evidence points to masked suspect
Guthrie was last seen in the early hours of February 1, when she was dropped off at her home after a family gathering. Authorities say she was taken from her residence, where blood was later found on her porch. A doorbell camera captured footage of a masked man believed to be the abductor. The suspect was dressed in gloves, a backpack, and a mask, which investigators believe was purchased at a Walmart.
Forensic analysis of the video suggests the suspect is between 5 feet 9 inches and 5 feet 10 inches tall (175-177 cm) with an average build. The FBI is reviewing surveillance footage from Walmart stores to identify potential buyers of the items.
DNA and new technology deployed in search
Investigators have recovered a glove matching those worn by the suspect and have developed a DNA profile of an unknown male, which has been entered into a national FBI database. The database could yield a match if the suspect has a prior arrest record that includes a DNA sample.
In a new effort to locate Guthrie, authorities are using a device called a "signal sniffer" mounted on a helicopter to detect signals from her pacemaker. The tool is being deployed over areas where officials believe she might be held, according to law enforcement sources cited by CBS News.
Massive search operation yields no breakthroughs
The search for Guthrie has involved hundreds of officers, helicopters, and sniffer dogs, along with thousands of tips from the public. On Friday, police executed a search warrant at a residence two miles from Guthrie's home but made no arrests. The operation has expanded to include new strategies as the case remains unsolved.
Guthrie was last seen on the evening of January 31 after attending a family gathering at her daughter Annie Guthrie's home. Her absence was noticed the following day by members of her church, who alerted her family.
Savannah Guthrie pleads for mother's safe return
"Whoever has her, or knows where she is, please-we just want her back. Her loved ones still have hope."
Savannah Guthrie, in a video appeal on Sunday
Guthrie's family continues to appeal for information, while authorities urge the public to refrain from speculation that could hinder the investigation.
