Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos defended the evidence used in the investigation of Nancy Guthrie’s abduction, stating that a judge approved the probable‑cause warrant and that investigators have not ruled any individual out.
Nanos explained that the search warrants were issued based on information indicating a potential location for Nancy Guthrie or a suspect, and that this evidence was presented to the judge for approval.
The investigation has been urgent, as Guthrie, an 84‑year‑old mother of a well‑known television co‑host, relies on heart medication and the authorities sought her quickly.
The first person detained was delivery driver Carlos Palazuelos, located 60 miles south of Tucson, who was released without charge; a second individual, Luke Daly, a felon facing unrelated drug charges, was also detained and released.
Although these individuals have been ruled out for now, Nanos noted that new evidence could bring anyone back into focus, and no suspect has yet been publicly identified.
Palazuelos filed a notice of claim seeking $3.25 million, alleging he was detained without probable cause, held for hours, and that his home was damaged during a search warrant execution.
The claim asserts that the warrant used to detain Palazuelos was based on false or baseless evidence, although the warrant itself has not been made public.
Investigators continue to sift through evidence, and the sheriff expressed optimism that DNA and video analysis will help resolve the case.
He urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement, noting the family also believes someone knows more, and provided phone numbers for the FBI and an anonymous reward program.
