Investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance Continues in Arizona

In recent developments, a person briefly detained for questioning in the case of Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance in Rio Rico, Arizona, has been released. Authorities have provided updates on the ongoing investigation.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department reported that deputies detained an individual during a traffic stop south of Tucson, near the US-Mexico border, following the FBI’s release of surveillance images. The images showed a masked person wearing what appeared to be a handgun holster outside Guthrie’s front door on the night of her disappearance.

In collaboration with the FBI, the sheriff’s department conducted a court-authorized search at a property in Rio Rico, which is approximately 20,000 residents strong, situated about an hour south of Tucson and 15 miles north of the US-Mexico border. This search extended into the night and culminated the following morning when investigators vacated the premises and removed police tape.

Fox News identified the individual detained during the traffic stop as Carlos Palazuelos, who reported that he was subsequently released and returned home. Palazuelos, who delivers packages in Tucson, maintained his innocence in relation to Guthrie’s disappearance. He mentioned being questioned about his activities and having his phone confiscated before his release.

Additionally, Palazuelos suggested he might have delivered a package to Guthrie’s home. He recounted how law enforcement presented his relative with a surveillance photograph of a masked figure on Guthrie’s property, noting the resemblance to his eyes.

That’s it. That’s all I know, Palazuelos remarked.

The FBI had previously released clips showing a masked individual carrying a backpack and a potential handgun holster near Guthrie’s home. This person was seen turning away from a doorbell camera, holding a flashlight in their mouth, and attempting to obscure the lens with a gloved hand and a piece of a plant.

Investigators have concluded that Guthrie, who went missing after being last seen at her home on January 31, was likely taken against her will. Testing confirmed that blood found on her porch was hers, exacerbating concerns for her safety.

Nancy Guthrie is the mother of Savannah Guthrie, a host on the “Today” show. The disappearance has garnered national attention, with Savannah and her siblings issuing video statements expressing their readiness to meet ransom conditions while requesting proof of life.

The Pima County Sheriff, Chris Nanos, has highlighted Nancy Guthrie’s mental alertness but emphasized her limited mobility and reliance on multiple medications, heightening anxiety over her health without her medication.

The FBI has deployed digital billboards in various major cities to solicit tips and has urged anyone with information to contact investigators.

Bradford Betz is a Fox News Digital reporter specializing in crime and political issues.