Newly Released Footage in Nancy Guthrie Case Could "Crack This Investigation Wide Open," Says Former FBI Agent

Surveillance footage and images released by the FBI depict a figure outside Nancy Guthrie's Tucson residence, raising hopes for breakthroughs in the case of the missing mother of "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie. A retired FBI special agent believes these visuals could significantly advance the investigation.

The footage captures a person wearing a ski mask and gloves, carrying a backpack and what appears to be a weapon, lurking near the front door of Guthrie's home. The 84-year-old was reported missing on February 1.

"Examine every detail—the clothing, the weapon, the backpack. Pay attention to how he walks and his demeanor," said Jason Pack, a former special agent, emphasizing the importance of recognizing subtle cues. "Someone out there might know this individual based on their gait or appearance."

Law enforcement officials revealed that the images were obtained after an armed individual tampered with the security camera on the morning of Guthrie's disappearance. In one clip, the figure raises a gloved hand to obscure the camera before departing. Another video shows them holding a flashlight in their mouth while covering the lens with what appears to be prairie brush.

Authorities have indicated that this individual is not yet classified as a suspect but is someone they wish to identify. Law enforcement sources noted that the masked figure may have a firearm visible on their belt.

Lance Leising, another retired FBI supervisory agent, remarked on the apparent planning behind the individual's disguise, stating, "They took great care to conceal their identity but displayed poor execution in their approach to the crime scene."

Pack suggested that investigators could leverage the released images to canvass neighborhoods, asking residents if they recognize the individual or their belongings. "This is an opportunity to engage the community," he added.

Mary Ellen O'Toole, a former senior FBI profiler, pointed out that the subject's attire might reveal their identity. "It's not uncommon for offenders to rehearse their outfits before committing a crime," she explained. "Someone might recall seeing that clothing during such a rehearsal."

The footage was captured by a Nest camera at Nancy Guthrie's home and was released ten days after her disappearance. Pack noted that recovering this footage was akin to finding "a needle in a haystack." The FBI collaborated with Google to access the video data.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos disclosed that Nancy Guthrie's doorbell camera was disconnected around 1:47 a.m. on the day she vanished. A subsequent detection at approximately 2:12 a.m. identified what was classified as a person. Nanos explained that immediate access to this footage was hindered due to a lack of subscription services at her residence.

Both Pack and Leising speculated that additional footage may exist, either being sought or already recovered by the FBI, as there were more cameras inside the home. Pack also mentioned potential evidence on the welcome mat outside the door, which could yield trace evidence linking the individual to specific locations.

Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have made emotional appeals for their mother's safe return. A ransom note demanding payment in bitcoin has since passed its deadline, with no further communication reported between the family and alleged kidnappers.

On social media, Savannah Guthrie urged anyone who recognizes the masked figure to come forward, stating, "We believe she is still out there. Bring her home." As of now, no suspects have been identified in this ongoing investigation.

Pack emphasized that releasing these images could increase pressure on the individual involved. "Criminals often make mistakes when they feel cornered," he noted. "It's only a matter of time before someone recognizes that backpack or those distinctive features."

Anyone with information regarding Nancy Guthrie's disappearance is encouraged to contact 520-882-7463 or call the FBI tip line at 800-CALL-FBI. A reward of $50,000 is being offered for information leading to her recovery or the arrest of those responsible for her disappearance.