First Person Detained in Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping Case: What We Know So Far

Tucson, Arizona — February 2026: Investigators have detained the first individual for questioning in the kidnapping case of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, according to multiple media reports.

The development came just hours after the FBI released doorbell camera footage and high-resolution images showing a masked individual near Nancy Guthrie’s home on the night she disappeared.

Authorities have stressed that the person has not been arrested or charged and is not officially named a suspect at this stage.

Where Was the Individual Detained?

Law enforcement sources confirmed that the individual was detained south of Tucson, near Rio Rico, Arizona. The location is around one hour from Nancy Guthrie’s home in the Catalina Foothills area.

Officials said the detention followed several investigative leads developed over recent days.

FBI Refers Questions to Local Authorities

The FBI has declined to share details about the detained person’s identity. All inquiries have been directed to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, which has not yet released further information.

Authorities emphasized that the detention is part of an ongoing investigation and does not confirm involvement in the crime.

Investigators Move Quickly After Detention

According to reports, investigators are now working to establish the individual’s place of residence and determine whether any vehicles, storage units, or properties linked to the person may require search warrants.

CNN law enforcement analyst John Miller described the moment as “pivotal,” noting that such detentions often lead to rapid evidence collection, including digital and forensic material.

Doorbell Camera Footage Spurs New Leads

The detention comes shortly after the FBI released footage from February 1, 2026, showing a masked person wearing gloves and a backpack outside Nancy Guthrie’s home during the early morning hours.

Officials say the footage led to a surge in public tips. FBI Director Kash Patel later confirmed that investigators are now working with multiple persons of interest, marking a shift from earlier statements.

Case Status and Ongoing Investigation

Following the release of the surveillance footage, law enforcement reportedly revisited the home of Nancy Guthrie’s daughter, Annie Guthrie, located about 10 minutes away. Authorities collected evidence but have not confirmed any link between family members and the disappearance.

Nancy Guthrie has now been missing for 10 days, and investigators continue to treat the case as an abduction. There has been no confirmed proof of life, and earlier ransom deadlines have passed.

Savannah Guthrie has shared new images of the masked individual and renewed her family’s public appeal, urging anyone with information to contact authorities.

Officials have reiterated that the detained individual is being questioned only. The investigation remains active and ongoing.