As the search for Nancy Guthrie enters its third week, federal investigators have expanded their efforts beyond U.S. borders - prompting questions about why Mexican authorities are now involved in the case.
Guthrie, 84, was last seen on January 31 at her home in Tucson, Arizona. Authorities believe she was abducted in the early hours of February 1. Since then, thousands of tips have been reviewed, surveillance footage has been analyzed, and federal agencies have joined local law enforcement in what officials describe as an intensive investigation.
So why has the FBI contacted authorities in Mexico?
Cross-Border Coordination Near Arizona
Multiple outlets reported this week that the FBI has reached out to Mexican federal law enforcement, particularly in the state of Sonora, which borders Arizona.
Law enforcement sources cited by ABC News indicated that Mexican officials were notified of Guthrie's disappearance as a precautionary measure. However, authorities have not publicly confirmed any evidence that she was transported across the border.
According to reports, investigators examined Border Patrol cameras and electronic surveillance tools but did not find confirmation that Guthrie crossed into Mexico immediately following the suspected abduction. Still, officials have not ruled out the possibility that she could have been moved at a later time.
It is standard procedure in cases near the southern border for U.S. federal agencies to coordinate with Mexican counterparts, especially when the circumstances involve potential cross-border movement.
Reports of Ransom Communications
The investigation has also been complicated by reports of ransom demands.
TMZ reported this week that it received a new email demanding approximately $6 million in cryptocurrency, similar to a previous reported ransom message. The outlet said it forwarded the communication to the FBI.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed the authenticity of any ransom demand. Law enforcement officials have warned that anyone attempting to exploit the case with fraudulent ransom schemes could face serious federal charges.
As of now, investigators have not indicated whether they believe any ransom communication is credible.
Leads and Technology in the Search
Officials say more than 40,000 tips have been reviewed since Guthrie was reported missing. Surveillance footage previously released showed a masked individual near her residence around the time she disappeared.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told the BBC that DNA evidence recovered from a glove found near Guthrie's home did not produce matches in the FBI database. Family members have been ruled out as suspects.
Investigators are also reportedly deploying advanced technology in the search. According to CBS, law enforcement is using a device capable of detecting Bluetooth signals that could potentially trace Guthrie's pacemaker. The tool has reportedly been mounted on a helicopter to scan the surrounding area.
Officials have not suggested any confirmed involvement by organized crime groups, and there has been no formal statement linking the case to cartel activity.
A Search That Continues
Savannah Guthrie has made public appeals for information, urging anyone with knowledge of her mother's whereabouts to come forward.
Sheriff Nanos has expressed confidence that answers will come, though he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the timeline.
As of February 19, 2026, Nancy Guthrie remains missing. The decision to contact Mexican authorities reflects the breadth of the investigation - not confirmation of a cross-border abduction - as law enforcement continues pursuing every possible lead.
