Tucson, Arizona, remains on edge as the search continues for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie. Nancy disappeared from her Tucson home on January 31. As the investigation enters its third week, Law enforcement continues to review evidence and follow up on tips as the search for Nancy remains active.
Today, there is renewed hope in the search for the Guthrie Family’s beloved matriarch as officials say investigators have identified a significant new lead in the case.
Investigators Trace Backpack and Mask Purchases to Walmart: What It Means For The Investigation
Law enforcement officials believe the mask, backpack, and clothing worn by a man seen in doorbell camera footage near Nancy Guthrie’s Tucson, Arizona, home were purchased at Walmart.
CBS News reported that the black Ozark Trail Hiker backpack visible in the Nest camera footage is sold exclusively through the retailer. Investigators have obtained purchase records for that specific backpack, including both in-store and online transactions.
Authorities are reviewing sales data from the past several months and expanding their search beyond Tucson.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told the outlet that the backpack represents one of the most promising leads in the investigation so farWalmart
Walmart is also cooperating with the FBI by providing records related to mask purchases. Some online commentators have suggested that the holster seen in the footage may have been purchased from the same retailer.
Please note: Authorities have not publicly confirmed that detail.
Latest Update: TMZ Reports Fourth Ransom Email in Nancy Guthrie Case
TMZ reports it has received a fourth email from a person claiming to have information about who kidnapped Nancy Guthrie and where she is being held.
According to the outlet, the latest message includes the same bitcoin account referenced in the previous three communications.
TMZ reported that the email states in part, “I know what I saw 5 days ago south of the border, and I was told to shut up so I know who he is and that was definitely Nancy with them.”
TMZ notes this is the second time the sender has suggested that more than one individual may be involved in the alleged abduction. In a prior message received on Friday, the sender wrote, “… be prepared to go International.”
Authorities have not publicly confirmed the authenticity of the email.
Savannah Guthrie Makes Emotional Plea
As the investigation continues, Savannah Guthrie has remained public in her appeals for her mother’s return.
The “Today” anchor shared a video Sunday addressing the person believed to be responsible and asked them to “do the right thing” and bring Nancy home.
Former CIA officer and FBI special agent Tracy Walder told Page Six that Savannah appears to be taking a different approach in her latest message. After releasing several earlier videos, Walder said the 54-year-old appears to be using “a different approach ” to reach whoever may be involved.
Law enforcement has not required Savannah to make public statements.
Experts note that family appeals can sometimes help sustain public attention in ongoing investigations.
As authorities review purchase records and pursue new leads, Nancy’s family continues to wait for answers. The search remains active, and officials say each tip is being evaluated.
