Massive Response in Search for Missing Arizona Woman

Fri Feb 13 2026 11:55:06 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

After the release of surveillance footage showing a masked figure on Nancy Guthrie's porch, authorities in Arizona received over 4,000 tips within 24 hours as they investigate her disappearance.

Nancy Guthrie, an 84-year-old woman missing from Tucson, Arizona, prompted a flurry of public response following the release of videos capturing a masked individual outside her home. Authorities, including the Pima County sheriff and FBI, are sifting through tens of thousands of tips—many of which may be irrelevant, yet every lead is crucial. Investigators emphasize the importance of public involvement in cracking cases, showcasing previous instances where tips significantly advanced investigations.

An Arizona sheriff’s department has received over 4,000 calls within 24 hours after releasing videos of a masked person on Nancy Guthrie’s porch. Experts stress the significance of each tip as authorities seek to solve her disappearance, now entering its second week.

Experts emphasize the utility of public tips in generating leads on both significant and minor cases. The masked figure seen outside Guthrie’s home is currently considered a crucial clue in the investigation. Former Tucson police chief Roberto Villaseñor noted, Once the scene has been processed, it’s tough to advance without further information.

A Surge of Tips

The Pima County sheriff's office and the FBI have set up hotlines and a website for the public to provide tips regarding the case of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, who is the mother of NBC “Today” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. Since Guthrie was reported missing on February 1, the FBI has reportedly received over 13,000 tips, while the sheriff's department has logged at least 18,000 calls. The FBI is treating the situation as a 24-hour operation, assuring that each tip is measured for credibility and relevance.

Lessons from Past Investigations

Across the nation, many major crimes have seen boosts from public tips. For instance, the known Unabomber, Ted Kaczynski, was caught thanks to the recognition of his manifesto by family members. Similarly, the previously unsolved murders of an Ohio woman and her daughters were cracked when police appealed to the public for handwriting recognition. These examples illustrate the power of community involvement in piecing together evidence that may seem obscure at first.

Sorting Through the Haze

While many tips can be outrageous, as described by Lt. Darren Gilbertson from the Idaho State Police, most are evaluated astutely by FBI agents, allowing key investigators to focus on actionable leads. In Guthrie’s case, she was last seen on January 31, and the public's response in identifying the suspect seen in surveillance footage could be pivotal. The masked individual is described as male, standing approximately 5-foot-9, with a medium build, and authorities hope additional tips will yield helpful insights.

As the investigation continues, retired Tucson chief Villaseñor expresses optimism, saying, “You never know what might unlock the case. Someone may recognize the clothing or the backpack. Every eye can help.”