The Federal Bureau of Investigation announced Thursday that it has increased the reward for information in the Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case to $100,000, as investigators continue to pursue leads in the disappearance of the 84-year-old Tucson resident.
FBI Phoenix disclosed new identifying characteristics of a potential suspect following forensic analysis conducted by the bureau's Operational Technology Division. The enhanced examination of doorbell camera footage has provided investigators with additional details that may prove crucial to solving the case.
Suspect Description Released
According to federal authorities, the individual of interest is described as a male standing approximately five feet nine inches to five feet ten inches tall, with an average build. Surveillance footage shows the person wearing a distinctive black 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack at the time of the alleged incident.
The FBI reported that since February 1, law enforcement has received more than 13,000 tips from members of the public regarding this investigation. The substantial volume of information demonstrates significant community engagement in efforts to locate Mrs. Guthrie.
Timeline of Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie was last observed in Tucson on January 30 following a dinner engagement with family members. Concerns arose the following day when the octogenarian failed to appear for a scheduled virtual church service viewing with friends.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed that family members placed a 911 call at approximately 12:03 p.m. on February 1 to report Mrs. Guthrie missing. Patrol units responded promptly and initiated search and rescue protocols.
FBI Director Kash Patel subsequently released surveillance photographs captured on the evening of the suspected kidnapping. The images depict an individual wearing a ski mask at the entrance of Mrs. Guthrie's residence, apparently attempting to obscure security cameras. Director Patel described the person as armed and stated that the previously inaccessible footage was recovered through collaborative investigative efforts.
Family Appeals for Information
Savannah Guthrie, a prominent NBC News journalist and co-anchor of the Today show, has temporarily relocated from New York to Arizona to be present with her family during this crisis. She has been joined by her siblings, Annie Guthrie and Camron Guthrie, in making public appeals for assistance.
In a statement shared via social media, the family expressed their belief that Mrs. Guthrie remains alive. The siblings described their mother as a devoted woman of faith, a loving grandmother, and an individual characterized by kindness and strength.
The investigation has garnered attention at the highest levels of government. President Donald Trump publicly committed federal resources to the search effort, stating that the administration is deploying all available assets to ensure Mrs. Guthrie's safe return. The President extended the nation's prayers to the family during this difficult period.
How to Provide Information
Hundreds of detectives and federal agents continue working the case. Authorities urge anyone with information relevant to Nancy Guthrie's disappearance or the identity of the suspect to contact the FBI immediately. Tips can be submitted by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or through the bureau's online portal at tips.fbi.gov.
The increased reward of up to $100,000 is available for information leading to Mrs. Guthrie's location and the arrest and conviction of any individuals involved in her disappearance. Law enforcement officials emphasize that all tips, regardless of how minor they may seem, could prove valuable to the investigation.