TUCSON ARIZONA, Investigators announced that missing woman Nancy Guthrie is now presumed deceased based on evidence gathered during the ongoing investigation.
According to law enforcement officials, the determination follows an extensive review of physical evidence, digital data, and investigative leads developed since Guthrie was first reported missing.
Authorities stated that the totality of the circumstances — including the absence of verified contact, communication, or financial activity — has led investigators to transition the case from a missing persons investigation to a suspected homicide inquiry.
While Guthrie’s body has not been recovered, officials said the evidence collected thus far supports the presumption that she is deceased. Law enforcement agencies continue working with forensic specialists and partner agencies to locate her remains and identify those responsible.
Late Thursday night, a significant law enforcement operation took place at a residence in the 6280 N. Placita de Rojelio area in Tucson following what authorities described as a tip connected to the case.
Public records indicate that Luke Anthony Daley, 37, has prior criminal cases involving drug and weapons-related charges. Court filings show multiple criminal case numbers associated with his name. His brother, Matthew Daley, 39, was also detained during the operation. Officials have not confirmed whether any charges have been filed in connection with Guthrie’s disappearance.
Authorities have not publicly identified an additional male reportedly detained at the location, nor have they detailed the specific reason for the search.
Around the same time as the law enforcement activity, FBI agents were observed stopping and examining a silver Range Rover approximately two miles from Guthrie’s home. The vehicle was later towed after agents processed the scene. Federal authorities have not confirmed whether the vehicle is directly connected to the disappearance, stating only that investigative leads are being pursued.
Law enforcement clarified that earlier reports incorrectly linked the operation to a different nearby residence. Officials issued a statement correcting that information.
The FBI confirmed it is actively assisting in the investigation. Authorities stated that DNA evidence recovered from Guthrie’s property does not match her or individuals known to be in close contact with her. Forensic testing remains ongoing.
Investigators also installed specialized equipment on a Pima County Sheriff’s helicopter to attempt detection of potential radio-frequency signals associated with Guthrie’s pacemaker device. Officials noted that the device reportedly stopped syncing with her personal electronics around 2:30 a.m. on the morning she disappeared. Authorities have not disclosed whether that effort produced results.
Earlier in the investigation, Tucson resident Carlos Palazuelos was detained but later released without charges after authorities determined he was not connected to the case.
The FBI released surveillance footage from a doorbell camera showing a masked individual wearing gloves approaching Guthrie’s home on the evening she disappeared. Officials have not publicly identified the individual shown in the video.
Authorities also reported receiving ransom communications demanding millions of dollars; however, law enforcement has not verified their authenticity.
The case has received national attention, and both local and federal agencies continue to pursue leads. Officials emphasized that certain investigative details cannot yet be disclosed.
The investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance remains active, and further updates are expected as new information becomes available.
