Investigators say evidence of forced entry and possible blood found at southern Arizona home as FBI joins search.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Authorities in southern Arizona say they are aware of reports that ransom notes are circulating in connection with the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, as investigators continue to pursue leads in a case that has drawn national attention.
In a statement Tuesday, Chris Nanos, sheriff of Pima County, said his office is taking all information seriously and is coordinating closely with federal authorities. “We are aware of reports circulating about possible ransom note(s) regarding the investigation into Nancy Guthrie,” Nanos said, adding that all tips are being forwarded directly to detectives working alongside the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Arizona’s Family sister station KOLD 13 News confirmed it was among the outlets that received a ransom note, which was subsequently provided to law enforcement. According to reports, the note included a deadline, a monetary demand and details investigators believe may only be known to the person or people responsible.
Investigators say Guthrie, 84, was last seen around 9:30 p.m. Saturday at her home in the Catalina Foothills area near Skyline Drive and Campbell Avenue. She was reported missing late Sunday morning. “We have someone’s life who is in jeopardy,” Nanos said. “Number one is we’ve got to find her.”
The sheriff has declined to say whether investigators believe the disappearance was random or targeted.
FBI assisting with investigation
At a Tuesday morning news conference, Jon Edwards, an assistant special agent with the FBI’s Tucson office, said federal agents are now actively assisting the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Edwards said the FBI is analyzing cell phone data, reviewing cell tower information and conducting interviews.
“The FBI is doing everything in its power to bring Nancy Guthrie home to her family,” Edwards said, urging the public to report any information to local authorities or the FBI’s tip line.
Investigators said the crime scene has been processed and evidence, including fingerprints, DNA samples and images, has been sent to laboratories for analysis. As of Tuesday, officials said no evidence had yet identified a suspect.
Evidence uncovered
A person familiar with the investigation told the Associated Press that authorities found signs of forced entry at Guthrie’s home. Another law enforcement source told CBS News that a small amount of blood was discovered inside the residence, though testing is underway to determine whose blood it is.
According to the Associated Press, investigators believe the evidence points to a nighttime abduction. Several of Guthrie’s personal items, including her cellphone, wallet and vehicle, were still at the home. “She didn’t walk from there. She didn’t go willingly,” Nanos said in comments to CBS News.
Authorities are also reviewing data from license plate reader cameras in the area. Investigators have not disclosed a possible motive and said they do not currently believe the case involves a robbery, home invasion or a traditional kidnapping-for-ransom scheme. Nanos said additional media briefings are expected in the coming days as the investigation continues.
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