>> Continued From the Previous Page <<
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department initially handled the investigation but concluded by Tuesday that the circumstances pointed toward an abduction. That determination prompted the involvement of federal authorities and a renewed, more aggressive search effort.
Adding to the concern, investigators revealed that Guthrie’s phone, wallet, and vehicle were all left behind at the residence. Authorities also disclosed that an Apple Watch connected to Guthrie stopped syncing with her pacemaker at approximately 2 a.m. on Jan. 31, a detail that has become a key focus of the investigation.
The home was briefly released back to the Guthrie family on Tuesday, but that decision was quickly reversed. By Wednesday night, sheriff’s deputies and FBI agents returned, reinstating caution tape and launching another intensive search of the property and surrounding area.
At the same time, a separate group of investigators was seen at the home of Savannah Guthrie’s sister, Annie Guthrie. Detectives were observed collecting items including a tripod and lighting equipment, suggesting authorities are examining a wide range of possibilities and evidence sources. Reports also indicate that a detective associated with an Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force made contact with family members, though officials have not explained the purpose of that visit.
Local media confirmed that the FBI brought in hostage negotiation specialists, underscoring the belief that Guthrie may still be alive and that time is critical. Sheriff Chris Nanos emphasized that point during a briefing.
“She’s present. She’s alive, and we want to save her,” Nanos said.
Investigators are also pursuing several potential leads, including a reported trespassing incident in the neighborhood earlier in January and messages allegedly sent to media outlets demanding money. Authorities have not confirmed the authenticity of those communications but say they are being carefully reviewed.
President Donald Trump weighed in on the case Wednesday, announcing that additional federal resources would be made available to assist with the search. Trump also reportedly spoke directly with Savannah Guthrie to offer his support, according to NBC News anchor Tom Llamas.
Law enforcement is also examining whether Nancy Guthrie’s connection to a nationally recognized television personality could have made her a target. While officials stress there is no known threat to the general public, they acknowledge that the family’s public profile is part of the investigative equation.
On Wednesday night, federal agents accompanied by K-9 units conducted a focused search of a wooded area near the home and examined the garage. NewsNation correspondent Brian Entin documented the renewed activity, noting the sudden return of law enforcement after days of relative quiet.
“It’s been quiet here for the last couple of days, but now clearly they are about to do something at the house,” Entin said.
The search lasted less than two hours before authorities removed the tape and left the scene. Despite the limited duration, officials say every lead is being taken seriously and shared across agencies.
“The leads we’ve got coming in are critical to us. They’re valuable, and we’re sharing those with the FBI and others,” Nanos said.
Authorities say another update on the investigation is expected Thursday as the search for Nancy Guthrie continues and pressure mounts to bring her home safely.
