Tommaso Cioni pulled into Nancy Guthrie case as police confront growing speculation

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has entered a more complex phase, as investigators are forced to publicly address speculation involving members of Savannah Guthrie’s extended family.

While authorities continue to examine evidence already linked to the case, including a ransom note, police say unverified claims have begun to overshadow the investigation itself, prompting a direct response from law enforcement.

Police move to shut down claims

Attention turned to Tommaso Cioni, Savannah Guthrie’s brother-in-law, after allegations circulated suggesting he had been treated as a suspect in the case.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Office rejected those claims outright, stating that no suspect or person of interest has been identified.

“At this point, investigators have not identified a suspect or person of interest,” the department said in a statement, warning that the spread of unverified accusations was irresponsible and risked undermining the search.

Officials also told TMZ they could not confirm reports that a vehicle linked to the Guthrie family had been seized, adding that they were unaware of the source of those claims.

Case complicated by misinformation

The allegations originated with former NewsNation reporter Ashleigh Banfield, whose comments intensified scrutiny around the family as the investigation continued.

Law enforcement officials have stressed that detectives are speaking with anyone who may have had contact with Nancy Guthrie, but said that questioning individuals does not indicate suspicion.

Investigators say their focus remains on locating the 84-year-old safely.

What investigators believe happened

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has said authorities believe Nancy Guthrie was abducted from her Tucson home in the middle of the night. She lives alone and was last seen Saturday evening, with her disappearance discovered after she failed to attend church the following morning.

Police have ruled out the possibility that she wandered away, citing her limited mobility and lack of cognitive impairment.

A law enforcement source familiar with the case told CBS News that a small amount of blood was found inside the home, with what appeared to be dried blood also observed near the front door.

Ransom note remains under review

Investigators have confirmed they continue to examine a ransom note containing specific details about the home and the night Nancy Guthrie disappeared. Authorities have not verified the legitimacy of the note but say it is being treated seriously as part of a broader review of evidence.

The FBI is providing technical and analytical assistance in the case.

‘The clock is literally ticking’

Authorities have repeatedly warned that time is critical, noting that Nancy Guthrie requires daily medication for existing health conditions.

“The clock is literally ticking,” Sheriff Nanos said previously. “Without those medications, the situation could be fatal.”

With no suspect identified and public speculation continuing to swirl, police have urged the public to focus on verified information and to contact federal authorities with any credible leads.