Search for Savannah Guthrie's Mother Intensifies as Delivery Driver Released
The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has escalated dramatically as investigators work tirelessly to locate her alleged kidnapper. In a significant development, a delivery driver from Arizona, linked to the DoorDash platform, who was detained by law enforcement on Tuesday night in connection with the case, has been released after several hours in custody.
Delivery Driver's Account of Detention
Speaking to reporters, the man identified as Carlos Palazeulos, 36, described his ordeal, stating his "wrists were left swollen from the handcuffs" and that he was held against his will. "They held me against my will," Palazeulos told reporters outside his home. "They didn't even read me my rights until two hours later," he was quoted as saying by the New York Post. He explained that he was riding in a car with his wife when they noticed law enforcement vehicles following them, prompting them to pull over, at which point he exited the vehicle.
Palazeulos clarified that he works for a parcel delivery service in Tucson but does not recall encountering Nancy Guthrie. His nationality remains unknown, and senior reporter Paul Sperry noted in an X post that Carlos "delivers packages on contract for UPS" and drives a white van.
Details of Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie was last seen around 9:30 PM on Saturday, January 31, after being dropped off at home by a family member. When she failed to attend church on Sunday morning, another churchgoer alerted the family, leading to a welfare check and a 911 call around noon. Officials have described her as mentally alert but with limited mobility, and she relies on several medications. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has repeatedly expressed grave concern that she could face life-threatening consequences without access to these essential drugs.
DoorDash's Response and Investigation
Following news reports of the delivery driver's detention, DoorDash issued a statement on X, saying, "We are urgently investigating reports that an individual detained in relation to the Nancy Guthrie case was a delivery driver. We have reached out to law enforcement and are ready to support their critical investigation in any way we can. Like tens of millions around the world, our hearts are with the Guthrie family during this heart-wrenching time."
Family Appeals and Person of Interest
To date, Savannah Guthrie and her two siblings have issued multiple video appeals, pleading for their mother's safe return and indicating a willingness to pay a ransom. In a related development, former NewsNation host Ashleigh Banfield claimed on Tuesday, February 3, that Tommaso Cioni, the NBC anchor's brother-in-law, has been identified as a person of interest, as reported by OK! magazine.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts, combing through leads and evidence to bring Nancy Guthrie home safely. The community and Guthrie family remain hopeful for a positive resolution amid this distressing situation.
