FBI Adjusts Search Strategy for Missing Nancy Guthrie
FBI's Shift in Search Operations
On Thursday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) modified its search operations for Nancy Guthrie, transitioning personnel from Tucson to Phoenix. According to a source who spoke with ABC News, this change does not indicate a slowdown in the investigation. While agents will continue collaborating with the Pima County Sheriff's Department in Tucson, a significant number will now be based in Phoenix, where the FBI's primary Arizona office is situated. The search has now entered its fourth week as of February 26. However, the FBI has yet to publicly confirm this development or the reasons behind the operational shift.
Nancy Guthrie, aged 84 and the mother of Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing from her home in the Tucson area on February 1. The family has offered a reward of $1 million for any information leading to her safe return. Investigators maintain that the case remains active and urgent, urging the public to report any relevant information.
Latest Developments in the Investigation
What We Know So Far
Two federal law enforcement sources informed NBC News that Guthrie's residence will soon be accessible to her family, as officials no longer consider it necessary to keep the house sealed as a crime scene. On Wednesday, agents were observed examining a sliding glass door and removing several bags from the property. They also inspected the backyard, pool area, and front entrance, where blood was discovered on the ground.
Former FBI Special Agent Lance Leising noted that it is typical for investigators to revisit a crime scene during an ongoing case. He mentioned that new investigators, lab teams, or prosecutors might be brought in to reassess the location. Leising expressed curiosity about the bags taken from the home, suggesting they could contain significant evidence.
Authorities indicated that this operational shift allows for better resource utilization from the main FBI office, providing additional tools, personnel, and space to manage the increasing number of tips. Some agents will remain in Tucson to assist with ongoing searches and collaborate with local deputies.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department has limited public parking near the Guthrie residence to maintain a clear area for the investigation. Since the reward was raised to $1 million on February 24, officials have received 1,500 new tips. All evidence collected from the home and other search locations is currently undergoing DNA testing and forensic analysis. The Guthrie family has requested the installation of 'No Trespassing' signs around their property to safeguard it during the investigation.