The Federal Bureau of Investigation has reported a major development in the case of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, highlighting both progress and the ongoing dangers of modern crime. Authorities confirmed the arrest of Derrick Callella, accused of running an imposter ransom scheme targeting the Guthrie family. While this arrest marks a step forward, it also underscores the additional challenges for the family in separating legitimate leads from opportunistic fraud.
Callella was tracked down by FBI cyber investigators and faces charges including demanding ransom via interstate commerce and illegal use of telecommunications to harass or threaten. According to court documents, he sent messages to Nancy’s family shortly after Savannah Guthrie, her daughter and “Today Show” co-anchor, publicly pleaded for her mother’s safe return. Callella admitted he had no connection to Nancy’s disappearance, instead sending messages to see if the family would respond, exploiting information gathered online.
FBI Special Agent Heith Janke warned others against similar schemes, emphasizing that while this hoaxer is in custody, his actions caused significant disruption and emotional harm to the family. Despite this, the primary focus remains on locating Nancy, who was last seen at her Tucson, Arizona home on January 31, 2026. Evidence of a violent struggle and DNA found on her front porch led authorities to reclassify the case as a kidnapping. Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed that Nancy is still missing, with no proof of life yet available.
The investigation is a combined effort of local, state, and federal agencies, with a $50,000 reward offered for information. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information. While Callella’s arrest addressed a false ransom attempt, no primary suspect in Nancy’s actual disappearance has been publicly identified.
Savannah, Annie, and Camron Guthrie continue to advocate for their mother in the media. Camron issued a heartfelt message directly to the unknown captors, requesting communication to ensure Nancy’s safety. Meanwhile, investigators continue analyzing digital evidence, security footage, and movements in the 48 hours before her disappearance, seeking any anomaly that could lead to a breakthrough.
For the Guthrie family, life remains in limbo—balancing public advocacy with the private anguish of an empty home. Nancy Guthrie’s absence resonates nationwide, and while Derrick Callella faces justice for his fraud, the priority remains finding Nancy and bringing her safely home.