Pima County Sheriff Spotted at Basketball Game Amid Ongoing Search for Savannah Guthrie’s Missing Mother
TUCSON, Ariz. — In a development drawing sharp public attention, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos was seen attending a University of Arizona basketball game on Saturday night, just hours before Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released an emotional video pleading for the safe return of their mother, Nancy Guthrie, who has been missing for nearly a week. The 84-year-old woman disappeared from her suburban Tucson home under circumstances now being treated as a possible kidnapping.
Photos obtained by Fox News Digital show Sheriff Nanos sitting near the front row at the matchup between the Arizona Wildcats and Oklahoma State. The timing of his attendance has sparked criticism from some community members and observers who question the sheriff’s priorities amid an ongoing and highly sensitive investigation.
Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance has captivated the nation, in part due to Savannah Guthrie’s prominence as a host on NBC’s “Today” show. The family’s latest public appeal, shared on social media, underscores their desperation and willingness to cooperate with any demands from the alleged kidnappers, including offering a ransom. The incident has prompted a multi-agency response, with local law enforcement coordinating with federal partners such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security to investigate leads and ensure a thorough search.
Despite the high-profile attention, the search has encountered challenges. The terrain around Nancy Guthrie’s residence is described by authorities as difficult, complicating efforts to locate her. Early missteps in the response and delays in deploying search resources have also been reported, raising concerns about the investigation’s management.
In response to public scrutiny, the Pima County Sheriff’s Office has reiterated its commitment to resolving the case swiftly and safely. Sheriff Nanos, who has been under increased pressure as the investigation extends beyond initial expectations, has not publicly commented on his attendance at the basketball game.
The Guthrie family’s video message, released shortly after the game, is a poignant reminder of the human toll behind the headlines. Savannah Guthrie and her siblings implored the kidnappers to release their mother unharmed, emphasizing their readiness to meet any conditions to secure her return. The family’s appeal has been widely covered by major news organizations, including CNN and The New York Times, reflecting the national interest in the case.
Authorities continue to encourage anyone with information to come forward. The Pima County Sheriff’s Office has established a tip line and is working closely with federal agencies to analyze evidence, including an alleged ransom note discovered at the scene. Investigators remain cautious, maintaining that “everybody’s still a suspect” as they pursue all possible leads.
The case highlights the complexities law enforcement faces in high-profile missing persons investigations, balancing public communication, operational security, and the emotional needs of families. As the search for Nancy Guthrie continues, the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that brings her safely home.
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