Nancy Guthrie Case: AG Todd Blanche clarifies FBI’s role amid intense probe, says federal takeover 'Not the...'

Attorney General Todd Blanche said on Sunday (August 16, 2026) that he does not believe taking over the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie in Arizona is the best course of action for the FBI. However, he emphasized that federal authorities are providing maximum assistance to state and local investigators.

Speaking on NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” Blanche outlined the federal government's involvement in the high-profile case.“We are working as hard as we can with the state and local law enforcement in every area, and that means not only providing assistance with manpower, but any sort of forensic assistance,” Blanche said on Sunday.

“And so we’re going to continue to do that. Whether we come in with sharp elbows and take it over, that’s not necessarily the right thing to do for her or for anybody, but making sure that it’s done right and making sure that this investigation is being conducted the way that it should be is something that we’re doing.”


Nancy Guthrie, the mother of “TODAY” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing on February 1, 2026, from her home in Tucson, Arizona. The disappearance quickly sparked national attention and prompted a joint effort involving local law enforcement and federal agencies.

The investigation is currently led by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department with support from the FBI. Despite analyzing hundreds of leads, reviewing doorbell camera footage, and examining DNA evidence collected during the probe, authorities have not named or arrested any suspects.

During the interview, Blanche acknowledged that he had no new public details to share regarding the ongoing search.“I’m sorry to say that because I wish I had an update, and I know that this type of case is heartbreaking, especially when it plays out nationally like this one has,” Blanche said.

The search has seen recent developments aimed at resolving the months-long mystery. At the end of July, 2026 Arizona authorities released two ransom notes in an attempt to generate fresh leads. Law enforcement officials believe those communications were sent by Guthrie’s captors shortly after she vanished.

Earlier in July, a California man pleaded guilty to federal charges after sending a fraudulent ransom note following Guthrie’s disappearance.Federal and state authorities continue to urge anyone with information about Guthrie's whereabouts to come forward as the joint investigation continues.