Latest on Nancy Guthrie as ransom deadline nears and search enters second week

The search for Nancy Guthrie, 84, entered a critical phase Monday as investigators reviewed new communications tied to her disappearance and a second ransom deadline approached. Authorities say the case remains active across multiple locations in the Tucson, Arizona area, with no suspect or vehicle publicly identified as of Monday morning.

Nancy Guthrie was reported missing after she did not attend church on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. Investigators have said they believe she was taken against her will from her home late Jan. 31 or early Feb. 1, and they have confirmed blood found at her residence matched her DNA.

What authorities say happened so far

Investigators have described Nancy Guthrie’s home as the focal point of a continuing criminal investigation. She was last known to be at dinner with family on the evening of Friday, Jan. 31, before being dropped off at her residence, authorities have said.

In the days that followed, officials said they found a trail of blood at the front steps and evidence that a doorbell camera had been removed. Law enforcement has also examined areas around the property, including underground access points, as part of an expanding search.

Nancy Guthrie case: security tightened

Over the weekend, local authorities began maintaining a visible law-enforcement presence at Nancy Guthrie’s home for security purposes after her family requested added protection. The move came as public attention intensified and investigators continued working the scene and nearby locations.

Officials also reminded the public to respect private property and local traffic laws near the residence, emphasizing that the home and surrounding area are part of an ongoing investigation.

Family plea and the ransom timeline

Nancy Guthrie’s adult children released a new public video appeal addressed to the person or people believed to be holding her. In the message, the family said they had received communications and indicated a willingness to do what they could to bring her home safely.

Authorities have said they are evaluating an alleged ransom communication that set an initial deadline on Thursday, Feb. 5, followed by a second deadline on Monday, Feb. 9. The Monday deadline has been described as 5 p.m. local time in Arizona, which is 7 p.m. ET on Feb. 9.

Investigators have cautioned that the authenticity and meaning of the messages are still being assessed. Some details have not been publicly released out of concern for the investigation and the family’s privacy.

Key investigative steps in recent days

Law enforcement activity has expanded beyond Nancy Guthrie’s residence, including work at other nearby locations tied to the timeline of her last confirmed movements. Over the weekend, investigators were also seen conducting late-evening activity at a nearby home connected to family members.

Authorities have repeatedly said the investigation is ongoing and dynamic, with follow-up taking place at multiple sites. They have also urged anyone with credible tips to contact law enforcement directly.

Key takeaways

• The case reached its second week Monday, Feb. 9, with no publicly identified suspect or vehicle.

• A second ransom deadline was set for Monday at 7 p.m. ET.

• Police increased security at Nancy Guthrie’s home at the family’s request as investigative activity continued at multiple locations.

What to watch next

The most immediate development is how investigators respond as the Monday deadline passes and as any additional communications are assessed. Officials have indicated they are actively examining the content and authenticity of the latest message or messages connected to the case.

Beyond that, the public picture will likely depend on whether authorities share new verified milestones—such as confirmed sightings, additional forensic findings, or a shift in the working theory. For now, officials continue to describe the matter as an active investigation and have not announced scheduled public briefings.

Sources consulted: NPR, PBS NewsHour, People, Spectrum News