Nancy Guthrie Ring Doorbell Suspect Female? Internet Sleuths Notice This Subtle Detail

TUCSON, AZ. (THECOUNT) — Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance took a significant turn after authorities released newly recovered surveillance video showing a masked individual at her front door the night she vanished, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Office.

Online speculation intensified after newly released doorbell footage in the disappearance of Nancy prompted some users on X to question whether the masked individual seen at her front door could be a woman. Several posts pointed to the visible eyebrow shape and eye structure in the image, suggesting the features appear more feminine than masculine. Authorities have not commented on the gender of the person captured in the footage, and law enforcement continues to describe the individual only as a suspect seen tampering with the camera system the night Nancy vanished.

The video, released Tuesday, Feb. 10, shows a person wearing a ski mask and gloves approaching the front entrance of Nancy Guthrie’s home. The individual appears to tamper with the front door camera, Sheriff Chris Nanos said in a post on X, explaining that the footage was recovered from residual data located within backend systems that had not previously been accessible to investigators.

Law enforcement officials described the recovery of the footage as a critical development in the case. The sheriff’s office stated that the images show an armed individual appearing to interfere with the camera system during the early hours surrounding Nancy’s disappearance.

Former FBI hostage negotiator Chip Massey told PEOPLE that the footage represents a major step forward for investigators. Massey noted that prior to the recovery of the video, investigators had very limited visual evidence to work from. He emphasized that the image provides investigators with valuable reference points such as the individual’s physical build and movement patterns, which could assist in identification.

Former FBI assistant director Kieran Ramsey also told PEOPLE that the purpose of releasing the images is to draw public attention and potentially trigger recognition from someone who may know the individual shown. Ramsey explained that suspects sometimes attempt to conceal their identity, but even covered features can still offer identifying clues to someone familiar with the person.

Sheriff Nanos stated that the video was uncovered through technical recovery efforts conducted in partnership with other law enforcement agencies. Authorities described the discovery as previously inaccessible material that could now play a key role in the investigation.

Following the release of the footage, Savannah Guthrie reposted the images on Instagram and wrote, “We believe she is alive. Bring her home.”

Nancy Guthrie was last seen after being dropped off at her Tucson residence at 9:48 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 31. Her family reported her missing at 12:15 p.m. on Feb. 1 after she failed to appear for church services. Law enforcement has stated that evidence at the scene indicated Nancy was taken against her will.

Investigators previously confirmed that a trail of blood found on the front steps of the home was matched to Nancy through testing. In the days following her disappearance, alleged ransom notes were reportedly sent to multiple media outlets. The notes included deadlines demanding action from the family.

On Feb. 9, federal authorities announced they were not aware of any confirmed contact between the family and unidentified suspects despite the deadlines referenced in the communications.

In recent days, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings posted emotional video messages on social media directed toward the individuals believed to be responsible, asking for Nancy’s safe return.

Authorities continue to characterize the investigation as active and ongoing. Law enforcement officials believe the newly released surveillance images could prove pivotal in identifying the person seen at the front door the night Nancy disappeared.

The FBI and the Pima County Sheriff’s Office are urging anyone who recognizes the individual in the footage or who has any information related to Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance to come forward immediately.

Anyone with tips is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or the Pima County Sheriff’s Office at 520-351-4900.

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