FBI agents spent Wednesday and Thursday questioning employees at a Tucson Mexican restaurant in connection with the disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie.
Background
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31 when family members dropped her off at her home in the Catalina Foothills area of Tucson after dinner. Her family reported her missing the following day when she failed to show up for church. The FBI subsequently released images and videos of a suspect obtained from Guthrie's Nest camera.
The investigation took a significant turn this week when agents visited the restaurant where Nancy Guthrie had previously lunched with her daughter. According to "Crime Stories" host Nancy Grace, the Guthrie family visited the restaurant last November during a day when Savannah was filming at childhood sites for the "Today" show.
Professor of Forensics at Jacksonville State University Joseph Scott Morgan told Grace that the restaurant search indicates FBI investigators believe there is valuable information connected to the establishment. "Obviously the FBI knows something about this. They think there is something of value there," Morgan said.
The search also follows revelations that someone searched Google for Savannah Guthrie's salary information along with Nancy Guthrie's Catalina Foothills address. Director of Operations for USPA Nationwide Security Brian Fitzgibbons told Grace the restaurant interviews expand the scope of people Guthrie was interacting with. "Is someone at that restaurant focused on learning what the net worth of Savannah is and what the potential value of a ransom for Nancy would be?" Fitzgibbons asked.
The Investigation
The restaurant interviews come after investigators found DNA on a black glove discovered near Nancy Guthrie's home. That DNA was linked to an employee at a nearby restaurant, though the specific establishment has not been identified. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that investigators interviewed the restaurant employee and determined they have "nothing to do with the case."
The FBI has released images and video of a suspect in connection with Guthrie's disappearance. The footage was obtained from Guthrie's Nest camera system at her residence.
The investigation has drawn significant resources. A combined reward of more than $1 million is being offered for information leading to Nancy Guthrie's recovery: $102,500 from 88-CRIME, $100,000 from 1-800-CALL-FBI, and $1 million from the Guthrie family. Tips can be called in to 1-800-CALL-FBI or the Pima County Sheriff's Department tip line at 520-351-4900.
Key Takeaways
- Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen January 31 after family dropped her off at home following dinner
- Family reported her missing the next day when she failed to attend church
- FBI released suspect images and video obtained from Guthrie's Nest camera
- Agents questioned workers at Tucson restaurant where Guthrie had lunch with her daughter last November
- Someone searched Google for Savannah Guthrie's salary and Nancy Guthrie's home address
- DNA on black glove found near home was linked to restaurant worker but that person has been cleared
- More than $1 million in reward money is being offered for information
What's Next
Investigators continue to seek tips from the public. Homeowners in the area are encouraged to submit relevant security footage through the Pima County Sheriff's Department Evidence Submission Portal. Anyone with information is asked to contact the tip line at 520-351-4900.