Sheriff Admits Early Errors in Search for Savannah Guthrie’s Missing Mother
TUCSON, Ariz. — The search for Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC anchor Savannah Guthrie, has been overshadowed by admitted investigative missteps that may have hindered early efforts to locate the 84-year-old woman, whose disappearance has gripped the community and drawn national attention. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos publicly acknowledged errors in the initial handling of the case, including the premature release of the crime scene at Guthrie’s home and delays in deploying specialized search resources.
According to reporting by The Arizona Republic, Sheriff Nanos conceded that the decision to remove crime scene tape too soon was a critical mistake. The home was reopened days after Guthrie was reported missing, prompting a renewed search that uncovered additional evidence. “In hindsight, the scene should have remained secured longer,” Nanos said, emphasizing that a more cautious approach might have preserved vital clues.
Compounding the challenges, sources reveal that the deployment of Pima County’s advanced search aircraft was delayed for several hours. The pilot, who had been disciplined and reassigned to street patrol following a dispute with the sheriff, was not available immediately after Guthrie’s disappearance was reported around midday Sunday. This delay potentially slowed aerial search efforts that are crucial in the rugged terrain surrounding Tucson.
The sheriff also admitted that requests for assistance from outside law enforcement agencies were not made as promptly as they could have been. Experts note that early coordination with federal and state agencies can be pivotal in missing persons cases, especially when circumstances suggest possible abduction or foul play.
FBI agents have since joined the investigation, conducting meticulous searches of Guthrie’s home and surrounding areas. The bureau’s involvement is expected to bring additional resources and expertise. A former FBI hostage negotiator has indicated that the scene will be re-examined “as if it were day one,” underscoring the importance of revisiting initial findings.
Meanwhile, the community remains anxious as no suspects have been publicly identified, and the search continues amid speculation that Guthrie may have been taken out of state or even across the border. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is reportedly monitoring border crossings closely, given the proximity of Tucson to Mexico.
Authorities have also been investigating potential ransom notes and a mysterious white van seen near Guthrie’s residence. Local law enforcement has appealed to the public for any information that might shed light on her whereabouts.
The case has drawn attention from national media and law enforcement organizations, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. The sheriff’s candid admission of early errors reflects the intense scrutiny and pressure surrounding the investigation.
As the search presses on, officials urge anyone with information to come forward. The community and Guthrie’s family remain hopeful for a breakthrough, even as the investigation faces significant hurdles due to the initial delays and procedural missteps.
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