🚨 SHOCKING NEW STATEMENT in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance: Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos now says this was NO random kidnapping — calling it a targeted act where the person “knew who she was” and “knew her home.”

And get this: Experts and analysts are pointing to a critical 24-minute window in the recovered doorbell footage + timeline (from camera disconnect to motion detection and other data) that they say “proves everything” about premeditation and planning.

Read more:

The investigation into the disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has entered a new phase with Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos publicly describing the case as a targeted, non-random event. The statement, made in recent interviews and briefings amid the release of recovered doorbell camera footage, contrasts with earlier comments and has intensified focus on a roughly 24-minute window in the early morning hours of February 1, 2026.

Nancy Guthrie was last seen arriving home around 10:00 p.m. on January 31 after a family dinner. She was reported missing the next day when she failed to appear for planned activities. Authorities, including the Pima County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI’s Phoenix Field Office, have treated the matter as a potential kidnapping from the outset, citing evidence at the home suggesting she was taken against her will.

In updates provided to outlets like CNN, NBC News, and local Arizona stations, Sheriff Nanos emphasized that the individual captured on Guthrie’s doorbell camera appeared to have prior knowledge of her identity and residence. “This is a targeted kidnapping,” Nanos stated in one segment, according to transcripts and video clips. “That person didn’t just show up there that day and wonder, geez, will she be here? Will she be at home? They knew who she was. They knew her home.”

The sheriff’s remarks build on the FBI’s release of enhanced footage and still images showing a masked male—described as 5’9″ to 5’10” tall with an average build—approaching the door wearing long sleeves, pants, black gloves, and carrying a black 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack (a Walmart-exclusive item). The suspect is seen attempting to obscure the camera, first with a hand and then with branches from nearby vegetation. A holstered item was also visible on the individual’s side.

The approximately 24-minute period has become a point of emphasis in media analysis and expert commentary. Timeline details released include:

1:47 a.m. on February 1: The doorbell camera disconnects or is tampered with.
Around 2:12 a.m.: Motion is detected by security systems.
2:28 a.m.: Data from Guthrie’s pacemaker device shows it disconnecting from her phone.

Analysts, including former FBI profilers appearing on networks like CNN and YouTube channels dedicated to the case, have described this window as indicative of premeditation. The calm demeanor in the footage, quick adaptation to camera obstruction, and apparent familiarity with the property suggest planning rather than opportunism. One former profiler noted the suspect’s behavior implied reconnaissance, stating it was “impressive” in its efficiency.

The FBI has doubled its reward to $100,000 for information leading to Guthrie’s recovery or the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Over 30,000 tips have been received since early February, with authorities urging neighbors within a two-mile radius to submit any surveillance footage dating back to January 1. DNA evidence recovered from the property does not match Guthrie or individuals in regular close contact, and it is undergoing further analysis.

Earlier in the investigation, Sheriff Nanos had indicated no evidence pointed to a targeted incident, but his recent statements reflect evolving assessments based on video recovery and other leads. A brief detention of a man in Rio Rico, Arizona—about 60 miles south—occurred shortly after the footage release, but he was released without charges. The individual denied involvement.

Family members, including Savannah Guthrie, have shared emotional videos pleading for her mother’s return. One post featured childhood home movies with the caption expressing unwavering hope. The family has indicated willingness to communicate with anyone holding information, emphasizing concern for Guthrie’s health—she requires daily medication and has limited mobility.

The investigation has faced public scrutiny over early scene handling, including reports that media accessed the property before full securing, potentially capturing images of blood droplets later confirmed as Guthrie’s. Sheriff Nanos has defended the collaborative effort with the FBI, denying claims of withheld evidence and stressing hundreds of personnel are assigned. Some reports mentioned tensions, including evidence routing (e.g., items sent to out-of-state labs), but officials maintain unity in pursuit of leads.

No ransom demands have been verified as legitimate; imposter notes were dismissed. Searches have expanded to surrounding desert areas, with aerial and ground teams involved. Community vigils persist, and Guthrie’s photo—often showing her with family—continues to circulate widely.

As the case approaches the end of its second week, the sheriff’s assertion that this was no random act, combined with the scrutinized 24-minute timeline, has refocused attention on potential motives and connections. Investigators stress that public tips remain crucial, particularly regarding the backpack’s purchase, the suspect’s description, or any unusual activity in the area.

For Nancy Guthrie’s loved ones and a concerned public, the hope is that these developments—the sheriff’s targeted classification, forensic clues, and massive tip volume—will bring resolution. Authorities continue to appeal for information via 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov, underscoring that even minor details could prove decisive in bringing her home.