TUCSON, Ariz. (TNND) — A sheriff already facing scrutiny over his handling of the ongoing Nancy Guthrie case allegedly brought a loaded gun to an airport security checkpoint, according to reports.
CATALINA, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 3: Pima County Sheriff, Chris Nanos speaks to the media on February 3, 2026 in Tucson, Arizona. He was answering questions about the search for Nancy Guthrie, the missing mother of NBC host Savannah Guthrie.(Photo by Jan Sonnenmair/Getty Images)
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, who has been leading the investigation into the disappearance of the 84-year-old, was stopped by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents after a loaded gun was discovered in his carry-on bag at Tucson International Airport in 2024, Fox News reported on Saturday.
Citing an incident report, the media outlet said the gun contained multiple rounds of ammunition and was not declared before entering the checkpoint on November 6, 2024. The sheriff was not charged, but he was required to secure the gun before continuing his travel, according to the report.
“The sheriff missed his flight, stowed the firearm in his vehicle and flew out later,” the outlet noted.
The incident adds to mounting criticism surrounding Nanos amid the Guthrie investigation, which began after the woman was reported missing in early February and is believed to have been abducted from her Tucson-area home.
The case has drawn national attention and remains unsolved, with no suspects identified and authorities continuing to pursue leads.
Guthrie is the mother of “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie.
Nanos has also faced separate allegations related to his conduct in office, including claims of misconduct and political retaliation, further intensifying scrutiny from local officials and the public.
Officials have not indicated whether the airport incident will result in additional disciplinary action.
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The Guthrie investigation remains ongoing.