The investigation into the suspected abduction of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of US television personality Savannah Guthrie, has seen a significant escalation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has now raised its reward to a substantial $US100,000 for any information that leads to Ms. Guthrie's location or the conviction of those involved in her disappearance from her southern Arizona home.
FBI Intensifies Search with Increased Reward and New Evidence
What initially began as a missing person case has rapidly evolved into a full-blown FBI-led suspected kidnapping investigation. The increased reward signifies the gravity with which authorities are treating Ms. Guthrie's disappearance, which has now entered its 13th day. In addition to the financial incentive, the FBI has also released new, crucial images to the public. These include a detailed look at a black, 25-litre "Ozark Trail Hiker Pack" backpack worn by the suspected abductor, captured on Ms. Guthrie's doorbell camera.
The suspect, described as a male between 175cm and 179cm tall with an average build, was seen wearing this distinctive backpack in the footage. The FBI hopes that these updated visual details will help to focus the deluge of public tips they have been receiving. "We hope this updated description will help concentrate the public tips we are receiving," the FBI stated in a social media post. The agency confirmed that it has collected over 13,000 tips, with each one being meticulously reviewed for credibility and actionable intelligence.
Timeline of a Frantic Search
The case has understandably garnered significant international attention, partly due to the prominence of Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of NBC's *Today* show. Ms. Guthrie herself has been absent from the program since her mother's disappearance, demonstrating the profound personal impact of the situation. The family has been a source of strength and advocacy throughout the ordeal.
Earlier developments in the investigation revealed alarming details. Local police had confirmed through DNA testing that blood found on Ms. Guthrie's front porch matched her own. Further concerning evidence emerged with the discovery that her doorbell camera was disconnected in the early hours of Sunday morning, the same morning she went missing. Adding to the worry, Ms. Guthrie's pacemaker, which she required for daily medication to manage high blood pressure and heart issues, disconnected from her phone approximately half an hour after the doorbell camera went offline.
Family's Unwavering Hope
Despite the unsettling circumstances and the passage of time, the Guthrie family remains resolute in their hope for Ms. Guthrie's safe return. Savannah Guthrie has used her social media platforms to share heartfelt messages and updates, keeping the public informed and galvanizing support. In a poignant Instagram post, she shared a video montage of her mother, accompanied by the caption, "our lovely mom." She added a powerful declaration: "We will never give up on her. Thank you for your prayers and hope."
Previously, Savannah Guthrie had shared surveillance images from the incident, appealing directly to the public. "We believe she is still alive. Bring her home," she wrote, providing contact numbers for the FBI and the local county sheriff's department. This public plea, coupled with the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and the community, underscores the widespread desire to resolve this distressing situation.
Community Rallies Behind the Search
The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has resonated deeply within the community, prompting widespread support for the search efforts. Local residents and organisations have rallied behind the family and law enforcement, demonstrating solidarity during this challenging time. The FBI has maintained a 24-hour command post to coordinate the extensive search operations and manage the influx of information.
The investigation continues, with authorities urging anyone with even the slightest piece of information to come forward. The increased reward and the release of new evidence are critical steps in reigniting public attention and hopefully generating the breakthrough needed to bring Nancy Guthrie home safely. The world watches, holding onto the hope expressed by her daughter: that they will "never give up on her."
