Chris Nanos, the Pima County sheriff leading the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, said authorities remain actively pursuing leads six months after she vanished from her Tucson home. In a video message, Nanos explained that investigators released two purported ransom notes in hopes that members of the public would recognize the wording or writing style. He also addressed the Guthrie family, saying detectives remain committed to finding answers. Authorities continue to review tips, videos and forensic information while asking anyone with relevant knowledge to contact investigators.
| 1) | Why investigators released the purported ransom notes |
| 2) | What the sheriff said about the Guthrie family |
| 3) | The continuing search for Nancy Guthrie |
| 4) | The family’s public appeal for information |
| 5) | How the public can contact investigators |
Why investigators released the purported ransom notes
Authorities recently released two notes that are described as purported ransom notes in the case. Speaking in a video published Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, Chris Nanos said investigators hope the documents will prompt someone to recognize distinctive language, phrasing or writing patterns.
It remains unclear whether both notes were written by the same person. Nanos said releasing the actual notes could help investigators reach people who may have encountered similar wording or expressions but did not previously connect them to the disappearance.
“There are a number of pieces of information in these notes that just might jar someone to say, ‘You know, I’ve heard that,’ or the wording, the style of the writing.”
What the sheriff said about the Guthrie family
Nanos used the video message to address the Guthrie family six months after Nancy Guthrie, 84, disappeared from her longtime home in Tucson’s Catalina Foothills. He said detectives remain focused on the case and continue working to establish what happened.
The sheriff emphasized that the investigative team has not abandoned the search. He described the detectives as energetic, concerned and determined to continue pursuing information that could lead to answers for the family.
“We’re still here. We are not going away.”
The continuing search for Nancy Guthrie
Investigators are reviewing tens of thousands of tips, video clips and forensic leads as they work to locate Nancy Guthrie. The sheriff said the investigation remains active, with substantial work still ahead.
The department has previously indicated that investigators may identify additional evidence as they examine the large volume of available video. Nanos said authorities continue to assess the information already collected while pursuing new leads generated by the release of the notes.
“It’s very active. We’ve got a lot of work ahead of us.”
The family’s public appeal for information
The six-month anniversary of the disappearance also brought a public appeal from Savannah Guthrie, whose mother is Nancy Guthrie. In an emotional social media post, Savannah Guthrie said the family had experienced sustained agony and despair and urged anyone with information to come forward.
The appeal came as investigators continued asking the public to examine the released notes and consider whether their language or expressions seemed familiar. Authorities hope that even a small recognition could provide a useful lead in the ongoing investigation.
How the public can contact investigators
Anyone who recognizes wording, expressions or other details in the purported ransom notes is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Tips may also be submitted to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department at 520-351-4900.
Investigators have not said whether the two notes came from the same sender, and the case remains under active investigation. Authorities are encouraging people to share information through official channels rather than relying on speculation.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Two purported ransom notes were released to seek public recognition of their language or writing style. |
| 2 | The sheriff said investigators remain committed to the case six months after the disappearance. |
| 3 | Authorities are reviewing tens of thousands of tips, videos and forensic leads. |
| 4 | The family and investigators have asked anyone with information to contact authorities. |
Summary
The investigation into Nancy Guthrie remains active six months after her disappearance from Tucson. Sheriff Chris Nanos said authorities released two purported ransom notes to encourage recognition of distinctive wording or writing. Investigators continue reviewing tips, video and forensic leads, while the family and law enforcement urge anyone with information to contact the FBI or the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the purported ransom notes released?
Investigators hope someone will recognize the notes’ distinctive language, phrasing, expressions or writing style and provide a new lead.
How long has Nancy Guthrie been missing?
She had been missing for six months as of Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, after disappearing from her Tucson home.
How can people submit information?
People with information can contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or the Pima County Sheriff’s Department tip line at 520-351-4900.
