Suspect in Nancy Guthrie Abduction Visited Home Prior to Disappearance, Investigation Reveals
The suspect in the abduction of Nancy Guthrie, mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, had visited her Tucson, Arizona, home at least once before the night of February 1, according to law enforcement sources. The revelation comes as investigators continue to seek the public’s help in identifying the masked individual.
Earlier Visit Captured on Nest Doorbell Camera
An image released by the FBI, showing the suspect at Guthrie’s front door without a backpack, was captured by her Nest doorbell camera on a day prior to February 1, sources familiar with the investigation told ABC News. This suggests the suspect may have been surveilling the property before the alleged abduction.
The FBI also released images of the suspect with a backpack, taken on the morning of February 1, the day Guthrie failed to appear for a scheduled virtual church service.
Possible Reconnaissance and Camera Tampering
One theory being explored by investigators is that the suspect initially approached the door, observed the presence of the Nest doorbell camera, and then returned later to tamper with the device, potentially obstructing the view with branches, according to sources.
FBI Recovers Previously Inaccessible Footage
The investigation has been complicated by initial reports that footage from the Nest doorbell camera was inaccessible. Although, the FBI was able to recover video footage through analysis of “residual data located in backend systems,” as stated by FBI Director Kash Patel. The method of recovery remains undisclosed.
Previously, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos had indicated the camera disconnected on February 1, with motion detected approximately half an hour later, but no footage recorded due to the lack of a paid subscription. However, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department later clarified that there were no timestamps associated with the images, making it speculative to suggest they were taken on different days according to CBS News.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
As of February 24, 2026, the suspect remains unidentified. The FBI and Pima County Sheriff’s Department continue to operate together, and have asked neighbors to review their home security systems for any suspicious activity dating back to January 1.
The investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance has garnered national attention. Former FBI agent Jason Pack suggested the preparation and planning indicated by the suspect’s actions suggest a “more sophisticated type of criminal activity” according to ABC News.