SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – Investigators are focusing on Nancy Guthrie’s Apple Watch as a key piece of evidence in her disappearance.
The device stopped syncing with her pacemaker around 2 a.m. the morning she was taken, potentially pinpointing the exact time of the incident.
The case highlights how millions of people now wear devices that are crucial to their health and well-being. The Springfield Police Department says these devices provide extensive information and can act as heart monitors, detecting serious falls.
Police are now offering tips for people using smartwatches for protection.
“Not all smartwatches are cellular-enabled. Some of them do have to be connected to a cell phone,” said Cpl. Jason Copley. “The best way to maximize your protection through a smartwatch is to ensure that you either have a smartwatch that has a capability for a cellular mode or that your smartwatch is always in close proximity to your cell phone.”
Copley warns that the devices are not a substitute for general awareness. Users must make sure the batteries are charged, settings are appropriate, and that they understand the privacy settings.
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