SUMMARY
- Police escalated searches in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance by examining a septic tank.
- Investigators say evidence shows Guthrie was taken against her will.
- Bitcoin ransom messages have added urgency to the investigation.
Police investigating the Nancy Guthrie disappearance searched a septic tank behind her Tucson home as alleged ransom deadlines approached, authorities said Sunday.
The search underscores the gravity of the Nancy Guthrie disappearance, involving an elderly victim and apparent violence.
Nancy Guthrie, eighty four, was last seen Jan. thirty one at her home in the Catalina Foothills area of Tucson, Arizona.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said DNA testing confirmed blood found on the front porch matched Guthrie. Investigators believe she was abducted from the residence.
Several outlets reported receiving alleged ransom letters demanding bitcoin and listing specific deadlines.
Dr. Laura Pettler, a criminologist at Arizona State University, said septic systems are examined when investigators suspect evidence concealment.
Mark Fallon, a former FBI supervisory special agent, said cryptocurrency ransoms complicate cases because money can move quickly and anonymously across borders.
Nanos said investigators are pursuing “every credible lead” in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance. Savannah Guthrie said in a video Saturday that the family is prepared to pay for her mother’s safe return.
The New York Post reported drone footage showing detectives probing the septic tank. Authorities said forensic and financial specialists remain involved.
On Sunday, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department said it would maintain a law enforcement presence at Nancy Guthrie’s residence at the request of the family.
“At the request of the Guthrie family, PCSD will maintain a presence at Nancy Guthrie’s residence for security,” the department said in a statement posted on X.
“Media and the public are reminded to follow all traffic and private property laws.”
The statement added that no trespassing is allowed on the Guthrie property and that violations are subject to enforcement.
Law enforcement officials have not released details about possible suspects or motives.
Sheriff Nanos has said investigators are pursuing every credible lead and continue to ask the public to report any information that could assist in locating Guthrie.
The Nancy Guthrie disappearance highlights the intersection of traditional crime scene work and modern digital ransom threats for investigators nationwide.
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