Delivery Driver Questioned and Released in Ongoing Search for Nancy Guthrie

The investigation into the disappearance of 84-year-old Savannah Guthrie’s mother, Nancy Guthrie, took a significant turn this week after law enforcement briefly detained a local delivery driver for questioning in southern Arizona.

The man was held for several hours following a traffic stop near Rio Rico, before being released without charges. Authorities emphasized that the detention was part of routine investigative procedures and that no suspects have been publicly identified.

Nancy Guthrie has been missing since February 1, 2026. Her case has attracted national attention, prompting extensive searches, public appeals, and federal involvement. Traffic Stop and Temporary Detention

On Tuesday, February 10, officers conducted a traffic stop near Rio Rico, approximately 60 miles south of Tucson. During the stop, a man identified as Carlos Palazuelos, a local delivery driver, was detained for questioning.

According to authorities, he was held for several hours while investigators reviewed information related to the case. He was later released without charges.

Both the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department stated that Palazuelos has not been named as a suspect and that the detention did not indicate wrongdoing. Palazuelos Speaks After Release

After his release, Palazuelos spoke with reporters outside his home, describing the experience as stressful and confusing.

He said he was not immediately informed why he had been detained and felt distressed by the length of questioning. In interviews, he repeatedly denied any involvement in Guthrie’s disappearance.

“I didn’t do anything,” he told local media. “I’m innocent.”

Palazuelos also said that, because of his work, it was possible he had delivered packages in the area in the past, but he did not know Nancy Guthrie and had no personal connection to her.

He expressed hope that investigators would identify those responsible so his name could be cleared and the family could receive answers. Property Search and Evidence Review

Later on February 10, law enforcement executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in Rio Rico connected to Palazuelos.

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The FBI’s Evidence Response Team assisted in the search, which reportedly included both the home and a vehicle. Officials have not disclosed what, if anything, was seized.

Nearby residents told local outlets that parts of the home were damaged during the search. Authorities have not confirmed details about the operation. Investigators stressed that the search was one of many conducted as part of the broader inquiry and should not be interpreted as confirmation of guilt.

Background on Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance

Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31, 2026, at her home in the Catalina Foothills area near Tucson. She had been dropped off late that night after a family gathering.