Trump Comments on FBI Involvement in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance Case

President raises questions about possible cartel or foreign involvement in the ongoing investigation.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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President Donald Trump addressed reporters outside the White House regarding the FBI's involvement in the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC host Savannah Guthrie. Trump explained that the Pima County Sheriff's Department remains the lead agency, but the FBI has offered its full resources. Trump also speculated about the possibility of cartel or foreign nation involvement in Guthrie's disappearance.

Why it matters

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has garnered national attention, with the FBI now assisting local authorities in the investigation. Trump's comments raise questions about the potential involvement of organized crime or international actors, adding a new layer of complexity to the case.

The details

Trump stated that the Pima County Sheriff's Department did not want to relinquish control of the investigation to the FBI, but the bureau has since become involved and is offering its full resources. The president also acknowledged that the suspect's actions suggest either a high level of expertise or complete amateurism. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos defended his department's partnership with the FBI, stating that they have been working together since the start of the investigation.

  • Nancy Guthrie went missing from her Tucson, Arizona home on February 1, 2026.
  • It has been 13 days since Guthrie's disappearance as of February 13, 2026, when Trump made his comments.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who commented on the FBI's involvement and the possibility of cartel or foreign nation involvement in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance case.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff, who defended his department's partnership with the FBI in the investigation.

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of NBC host Savannah Guthrie, who went missing from her Tucson, Arizona home on February 1, 2026.

Savannah Guthrie

The NBC host whose mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing.

Kash Patel

The FBI Director, who assured the White House that the bureau is offering local authorities the "full resources" of the federal government in the Nancy Guthrie investigation.

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What they’re saying

“They didn't want to let go of it, which is fine. It's up to them. It's really up to the communities. But ultimately, when the FBI got involved, I think, you know, progress has been made.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (Fox News)

“It would be absolutely crazy to not take advantage of their partnership.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (Fox News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.