A major overnight operation saw officers block roads and deploy SWAT and forensic teams to a residential area about two miles from Guthrie’s home after investigators received a fresh lead.
Officers conducted detailed searches of a nearby property and detained individuals during the operation, though authorities clarified that no arrests have been announced so far. (File Photo)
The investigation into the disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie has entered a critical phase after law enforcement teams carried out a large overnight operation in Tucson, Arizona. Officers detained individuals for questioning and seized a Range Rover linked to a traffic stop as investigators followed fresh leads in the high-profile missing-person case.
Authorities continue to examine forensic evidence while searching for clues that could help locate Guthrie.
Law-enforcement agencies, including the FBI and local sheriff’s departments, intensified their efforts late Friday night with coordinated searches near East Orange Grove Road. SWAT units and forensic teams sealed off parts of the neighborhood as they pursued what officials described as an “active lead” connected to the disappearance.
Officers conducted detailed searches of a nearby property and detained individuals during the operation, though authorities clarified that no arrests have been announced so far.
Investigators confirmed that the operation took place about two miles from Guthrie’s Tucson-area residence. Police kept the media at a distance while examining possible evidence and conducting interviews with individuals connected to the area.
One of the key developments involved a Range Rover that officers stopped during the operation and later towed away for further examination. Law-enforcement personnel photographed and searched the vehicle’s interior before sealing parts of it and removing it from a restaurant parking lot.
Investigators are expected to conduct forensic analysis on the SUV, including DNA testing and digital data review, to determine whether it contains evidence linked to the case.
Officials have not publicly confirmed the ownership of the vehicle or whether the person connected to it is a suspect. Authorities detained a man during the traffic stop for questioning but later released him, maintaining that the investigation remains ongoing.
During the large-scale operation, officers detained multiple individuals for questioning as SWAT teams searched a residential property near the investigation zone. The stop reportedly occurred near a fast-food restaurant, where authorities examined a vehicle believed to be connected to a search warrant served in the area.
Investigators emphasized that detentions do not necessarily indicate criminal charges and stated that the individuals were questioned as part of routine investigative procedures.
Law-enforcement agencies described the search as part of a complex and evolving investigation into Guthrie’s disappearance, which has generated thousands of public tips and extensive forensic work. Authorities continue to analyse evidence recovered from her property, including DNA samples and surveillance footage that shows a masked individual near her home.
Investigators believe she may not have left voluntarily and have urged the public to provide any information that could help locate her. Despite increased activity, officials have declined to release detailed findings, citing the sensitive nature of the ongoing inquiry and coordination with federal partners.
As the investigation approaches its second week, law enforcement agencies continue to follow up on emerging tips and analyze forensic material from multiple locations.
Officers remain focused on gathering evidence that could clarify the events surrounding Guthrie’s disappearance and help identify those responsible. Investigators say they will provide further updates once new information becomes available.
