FBI claims he was excluded during first days of investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance
Kash Patel, director of the FBI, claims that he was excluded at the beginning of the investigation into the case of the mother of television host avannah Guthrie
FBI Director Kash Patel assured that his agency did not actively participate during the first four days of the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC anchor Savannah Guthrie.
In an interview with Sean Hannity on his podcast “Hang Out with Sean Hannity,” Patel stressed that “the first 48 hours after a person’s disappearance are the most critical” and that during that period the FBI remained on the sidelines, despite being available to offer support to state and local authorities.
The Disappearance of Nancy Guthrie
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31 at her home on the outskirts of Tucson, Arizona. Investigators suspect She was taken from her home late at night or early the next morning, presumably against her will.
Patel highlighted the FBI's role in the dissemination of images captured by Guthrie's Ring doorbell camera, which were published on February 10.
Video of the suspect
The recordings show a masked person, with gloves and backpack, approaching the main door of the home. According to Patel, the publication of these images was achieved thanks to the direct collaboration between the FBI and Google.
During the interview, the FBI director also questioned the decision to send DNA samples collected at Guthrie's home to a private laboratory in Florida instead of the laboratory. or the FBI in Quantico, Virginia. Patel stated that this was “a state and local matter” and highlighted that the FBI lab could have provided more quicker or detailed information.
In response, the Pima County sheriff, Chris Nanos, defended the actions of his department. In a statement, Nanos indicated that he went to the scene of the events the night following the disappearance and immediately notified the FBI.
Furthermore, he explained that the decision to send the DNA to the private laboratory was made “based on operational needs” and that both laboratories have worked closely since the beginning of the research.
The sheriff emphasized that his office maintains a commitment to a thorough and coordinated investigation, and will continue to work with federal partners as the case progresses.