Significant developments have emerged in the investigation into the disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of Savannah Guthrie. Authorities released previously unseen surveillance footage and confirmed that a man was briefly detained for questioning before being released without charges. These steps are part of ongoing efforts to clarify what occurred in the early hours of February 1.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31, 2026, after returning home near Tucson from a family dinner. When she missed a scheduled church livestream the next morning, relatives reported her missing. Investigators describe her as a vulnerable adult due to limited mobility, a pacemaker, and daily medication needs.
The FBI and Pima County Sheriff’s Department have coordinated searches and forensic investigations since her disappearance. On February 10, authorities released footage from a smart doorbell at Guthrie’s home, showing a masked individual with gloves and a backpack handling a firearm and tampering with the camera before it stopped recording.
Officials say the video, recovered with technical assistance, is the first major visual lead in the case. A $50,000 reward remains in place for information leading to Guthrie’s recovery or the arrest of those responsible.
Experts analyzing the footage suggested the suspect’s improvised handling of the weapon and camera may indicate inexperience rather than professional criminal planning. Authorities caution that these are opinions, not official conclusions.
After the footage was released, social media discussion proliferated, but law enforcement urged the public to avoid speculation or naming individuals without verified evidence to prevent harm and interference with the investigation.
Shortly after the release, a local man, Carlos Palazuelos, was detained near Rio Rico for questioning and released without charges. Investigators executed a search warrant at his residence but have not disclosed findings. Authorities emphasize that questioning individuals is standard procedure and he has not been named a suspect.
The investigation remains active. Authorities continue reviewing digital records, physical evidence, and public tips while conducting searches. Family appeals for information continue, and officials encourage anyone with credible information to contact the FBI or Pima County Sheriff’s Office.