Authorities Address Speculation That Savannah Guthrie's Brother-in-Law Is A 'Prime Suspect' In Her Mom's Disappearance
Authorities investigating the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie have addressed claims that Tommaso Cioni, Savannah Guthrie’s brother-in-law, is a “prime suspect” in the case.
“We have not identified a suspect or person of interest in this case,” a spokesperson for The Pima County Sheriff’s Department told TMZ on Feb. 4. “Detectives continue to speak with anyone who may have had contact with Mrs. Guthrie. We are also awaiting additional forensic results.”
Cioni was falsely labeled a “prime suspect” in the case by former NewsNation host Ashleigh Banfield, who claimed on her podcast, Drop Dead Serious, that a source told her Cioni was under investigation and that his car had been seized. Authorities also denied this claim.
“We are not confirming the car being seized, we are unsure where that reporter is getting that information,” the spokesperson said before reiterating the importance of sticking to facts when it comes to the case.
“While we appreciate the public’s concern, the sharing of unverified accusations or false information is irresponsible and does not assist the investigation.”
Cioni is married to Today Show host Savannah’s older sister, Annie Guthrie. Authorities confirmed to Us Weekly on February 2 that Annie was the last known person to see Nancy on Saturday, January 31.
“We have a start point,” Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said. “The family took her home from dinner at about 9:30 to 9:45 [p.m.]. So we would back that up to even say 9 or 8:30 p.m. to start looking.” On February 4, The New York Times reported that Cioni was the one who dropped Nancy at her home in the Santa Catalina Mountains just north of Tucson and made sure she was safely inside before leaving.
The family wasn’t made aware that Nancy was missing until 11 am on Sunday, February 1.
The investigation into her disappearance was upgraded to a crime investigation after authorities found a concerning scene at her home, which allegedly includes blood. Nancy’s phone and vital medication were left in her home, and authorities speculate that she was “taken” from her home against her will.