Two weeks have passed since 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie was reported missing, and her disappearance has drawn intense attention to Tucson, Arizona. Law enforcement agencies continue their search, joined by national media coverage and waves of online commentators eager to weigh in.
The surge of outside interest, however, has frustrated many locals who say it’s making a painful situation worse, the New York Post reports. State Representative Alma Hernandez, who represents Tucson and parts of Pima County, voiced concern about how speculation and misinformation are affecting both the investigation and the community’s peace of mind.
“I am so sick of watching the ‘reporting’ grifting, insane speculation, lies, and BS by random wannabe journalists and YouTubers who have now caused more harm than good to this entire situation and put this serious case in jeopardy,” Hernandez wrote in a post on X.
She urged visitors to “please go home” and allow law enforcement to continue their work without interference. “Let law enforcement do their jobs,” she said. “Stop following them during swat operations and playing detectives. I am sick of the constant LIES from those who can’t even spell Tucson and clearly have never been to our city.”
Hernandez also spoke out against false rumors circulating online and the stereotyping of local residents. “This home is not near downtown or midtown, so posting random videos of people walking in yards ain’t it y’all, no, Mexicans don’t all look the same, yes, our sheriff should probably stay off social media and not speak to the press anymore. Yes, this is sad, and we all want Nancy home. But seriously, PLEASE STOP.”
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, who has been defending himself amid scrutiny over the handling of the case, acknowledged the difficulty of the situation. Nanos described it as “exhausting” and said it could take “years” to find her Nancy Guthrie.
For now, the community has come together, offering comfort, prayers, and practical help as the search for their beloved missing neighbor continues.