TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — The sheriff investigating the apparent abduction of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother, Nancy Guthrie, expressed his frustration Friday over a lost opportunity for crucial evidence due to a malfunctioning doorbell camera.
Authorities discovered that Nancy’s doorbell camera was disconnected early Sunday, right before she went missing. Although software detected movement outside her home mere moments later, an active subscription was required to retrieve the lost footage.
“It is concerning, it’s actually almost disappointing because you’ve got your hopes up,” stated Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos in an interview, highlighting the impact of missing evidence on the ongoing investigation.
The ongoing frantic search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie has stretched into a sixth day, with officials yet to identify any suspects. Investigators believe she may have been taken against her will, with DNA evidence confirming a match of blood found on the porch to Nancy herself.
In addition to the troubling lack of video evidence, Nanos stressed that Nancy's health is a major concern due to her requirement for daily medication related to her heart condition, which makes her situation increasingly dire. “Her conditions, I would imagine, are worsening day by day,” he shared with the media.
With the FBI now involved in managing ransom notes allegedly sent to media outlets, the case has garnered nationwide attention, even reaching the desk of President Trump, who has directed federal authorities to assist in the search. Meanwhile, Savannah and her siblings released an emotional plea for their mother’s safe return, expressing their readiness to negotiate with the abductors.
As Pima County officers remain committed to finding Nancy, Sheriff Nanos remains hopeful despite the setbacks. “I wish technology was as easy as we believe it is, but it’s not,” he remarked.
