FBI releases new details about suspect in Nancy Guthrie disappearance - and increases reward for information

Authorities have released new details about a potential suspect in the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie – the mother of US TV host Savannah Guthrie – and have said they are doubling the reward for information.

The FBI also shared new identifying details about a possible suspect seen in images and video the bureau previously released showing a masked individual on the porch of the 84-year-old’s home in Tucson, Arizona, shortly before she went missing in the early hours of 1 February.

In a statement, FBI Phoenix described the person as “male, approximately 5ft 9in-5ft 10in tall, with an average build” and said he can be seen wearing “a black, 25-liter ‘Ozark Trail Hiker Pack’ backpack” in the footage shared by law enforcement.

The FBI also said it is increasing its reward up to $100,000 (£73,400) for information leading to the location of Ms Guthrie, who police believe was taken against her will.

The reward, which was previously up to $50,000 (£36,700), also applies to information that leads to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance.

Over 13,000 tips from the public have been received since 1 February, according to the FBI.

Earlier this week, a man was detained for questioning in the investigation and released without charge, authorities said.

Speaking to reporters following his release, Carlos Palazuelos, who had been detained during a traffic stop, said he was innocent and did not know who Savannah Guthrie was.

Police said Nancy Guthrie has difficulty walking, has a pacemaker, and requires daily medication for a heart condition.

On Thursday, Savannah Guthrie, who co-hosts the Today show, posted on social media a home video montage of her mother with the caption: “Our lovely mom. We will never give up on her. Thank you for your prayers and hope”.

The Guthrie family previously said they were willing to pay for their mother’s return after an apparent ransom note asked for $6m (£4.4m) by last Monday.

The FBI said on Monday it was not aware of ongoing communication between Nancy Guthrie’s family and the suspected kidnappers.