New Theory Emerges in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance

Crime reporter cites inside source claiming botched burglary, not kidnapping

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A decorated crime reporter has reported that investigators now believe the disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, was the result of a botched burglary and not an intended kidnapping. This contradicts the public stance of the Pima County Sheriff's Department, which still believes Guthrie was abducted. The reporter cited an 'inside source' and said multiple experts also believe the evidence points to a burglary gone wrong.

Why it matters

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has captivated national attention, and this new theory, if true, would significantly change the direction of the investigation and the public's understanding of what happened. It could also impact the charges and prosecution of any suspects.

The details

According to the report from CBS 5 crime correspondent Briana Whitney, the new theory is that Guthrie's disappearance on January 31 was the result of a burglary that went wrong, rather than an intended kidnapping. Whitney said her 'inside source' provided this information, which she described as 'now reportable.' The report contradicts the public stance of the Pima County Sheriff's Department, which still believes Guthrie was abducted. Authorities have said Guthrie's personal effects remained in her Tucson-area home and ransom notes have been transmitted during the ordeal.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen on the night of January 31.
  • The new theory was reported by CBS 5 on February 16, 2026.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

An 84-year-old woman who disappeared from her Tucson-area home on January 31.

Savannah Guthrie

The host of the 'Today' show and Nancy Guthrie's daughter.

Briana Whitney

A crime correspondent for CBS 5 who reported the new theory about Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County (Ariz.) Sheriff who has reiterated the belief that Nancy Guthrie was abducted.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency that has been involved in the investigation.

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What’s next

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

The takeaway

This new theory, if true, would significantly change the direction of the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance and raise questions about the initial handling of the case by authorities. It highlights the importance of carefully examining all evidence before drawing conclusions in high-profile missing persons cases.