Disappearance and Initial Search
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her Tucson-area home on the night of January 31, 2026. Family members discovered she was missing the following morning. Authorities later said there were signs of a forced abduction and launched an intensive search effort.
Doorbell Camera Footage Reveals 'Porch Guy'
In February, investigators released surveillance footage showing a masked man approaching the property and disabling the home's doorbell camera shortly before Guthrie disappeared. The individual, known as “Porch Guy,” remains unidentified. The FBI later offered a reward for information leading to an arrest.
Search Expands in March and April
Authorities conducted multiple searches across southern Arizona, while family members and volunteers continued efforts to locate Guthrie. Savannah Guthrie repeatedly appealed to the public for help and thanked supporters for keeping the case in the spotlight. Investigators maintained that they believed Nancy had been abducted and that the case remained active.
Suspect Arrested in Separate Kidnapping Case
In May, Coral Michelle Smith, a 40-year-old woman wanted in connection with a kidnapping and aggravated assault investigation roughly seven miles from Guthrie’s home, was arrested after a manhunt. The Pima County Sheriff's Department emphasized that the case was unrelated to Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, though experts noted investigators would likely review any possible connections.
Anonymous Tip Leads Search Toward Mexico
In June, Mexican search group Buscando Corazones Nogales received an anonymous call claiming Guthrie's remains had been buried in an unmarked grave near the border. The organization searched a stream in the Mariposa area but found nothing. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos later confirmed authorities were aware of the tip but had not been contacted by Mexican officials. He stressed that investigators would continue pursuing any credible leads.
Experts Suggest Ways to Reinvigorate Investigation
Former FBI agent Jennifer Coffindaffer recently suggested several ways to reinvigorate the investigation, including releasing enhanced images of “Porch Guy” and increasing public outreach. Other retired law enforcement officials have proposed expanding searches to the nearby Tohono O’odham Nation Reservation, which stretches along the US-Mexico border. As of late June, no arrests have been made and no suspect has been publicly identified in connection with Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance. The FBI and the Pima County Sheriff's Department continue to describe the case as an active investigation, while Savannah Guthrie and her family remain hopeful that answers will eventually emerge.
