No-parking zone in Nancy Guthrie’s neighborhood widened amid complaints
TUCSON, Ariz. — The no-parking zone around the home of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother, where journalists and social media anchors have stationed themselves for the past three weeks since her disappearance, is being expanded in response to bitter complaints from neighbors about congested roads, trespassing and trash left along the roads.
Pima County officials say efforts this weekend to keep traffic one-way on the road in front of Nancy Guthrie’s home didn’t work as they hoped, leading to expanded parking restrictions.
The new restrictions come into effect on Thursday. Authorities say journalists and streamers can still have access to the area, but they will have to park elsewhere and get dropped off in the neighborhood. Violators would face a fine of $250. The constant presence of news crews, bloggers and curious onlookers has drawn mixed reactions from neighbors. Some appreciated the attention given to this case. Others have placed traffic cones and signs on their properties to keep people away.
Authorities say tents, generators and satellite trucks set up along the road have created traffic jams and safety concerns.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her home just outside Tucson on Jan. 31 and was reported missing the next day. Authorities believe she was kidnapped, kidnapped or taken against her will. Drops of his blood were found on the porch, but authorities have not publicly revealed much evidence.
Despite the sheriff’s request not to search the premises on their own, the volunteers continued to search. A small group reported finding a black backpack Sunday, but it was not the same brand as the one identified in surveillance video the FBI revealed of a masked person at Guthrie’s home the night she disappeared.
Journalists and streamers aren’t the only ones who come to the neighborhood. Supporters of the Guthrie family showed up outside the home to leave flowers, yellow ribbons, crosses and prayers.
