Authorities have taken a significant step in the investigation into the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of prominent US television host Savannah Guthrie. A person has been detained for questioning in relation to this high-profile case, according to reports from ABC News.
Location and Investigation Details
The individual was apprehended south of Tucson in Florida, marking a crucial development in the search for Nancy Guthrie. Law enforcement agencies are now preparing to conduct a thorough search of an associated location, which could yield further evidence or leads in this disturbing abduction.
Surveillance Evidence and Timeline
This development follows the FBI's release of black-and-white surveillance photographs showing a potential suspect outside Nancy Guthrie's residence on the morning she disappeared. The images, captured by a doorbell camera, have become central to the investigation, though it remains unclear whether the detained individual matches the person seen in these photographs.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31 when she returned home just before 10pm following a family dinner. The following morning, her family grew concerned when she failed to arrive for church services shortly before midday, prompting them to report her missing.
Ransom Demands and Family Appeals
On February 3, US media outlets first reported the existence of an unverified ransom note, which was subsequently passed to FBI investigators for analysis. The following day, Savannah Guthrie led a heartfelt family video appeal on social media, making an emotional plea to her mother's abductors.
Days later, the family released another video statement indicating their willingness to pay for Nancy's safe return, with reports suggesting the ransom demand amounted to approximately $US6 million.
Ongoing Search and Public Appeal
In an Instagram post accompanying the release of the surveillance photographs, Savannah Guthrie wrote: "Someone out there recognises this person. We believe she is still out there. Bring her home." This public appeal underscores the family's determination to secure Nancy's safe return while cooperating fully with law enforcement authorities.
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the connection between the detained individual and the kidnapping, with hopes that this development will lead to Nancy Guthrie's safe recovery and the apprehension of those responsible for her abduction.
