TUCSON, Ariz. — A retired Colorado detective has proposed a “wrench attack” theory to explain the abduction of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie from her Catalina Foothills home near Tucson on Feb. 1, 2026.

Lisa Miller, a former law enforcement official trained in hostage negotiation by the FBI, shared the theory during an interview with Fox News on May 23, 2026. The search for Guthrie has entered its fourth month with no arrests and no confirmed suspects.

Authorities believe Guthrie was taken from her home during the night of Jan. 31 or early Feb. 1. The FBI released surveillance footage showing a masked man wearing gloves at her door on the night of the disappearance. The suspect has been referred to by some as “porch guy.”

‘Wrench Attack’ Theory Details

Miller described the theory as originating from a 2009 comic book about a hacker seeking crypto access. In the comic, the line “We’ll just drug him and use the $5 wrench and beat him till we get the password” inspired real-world crimes, according to Miller.

She explained that such attacks typically involve a mastermind behind a computer identifying wealthy targets through social media. The mastermind then hires street-level criminals to carry out home invasions, using violence or threats to obtain passwords or access to financial accounts.

Miller noted that similar incidents have occurred frequently in Europe, sometimes involving family members being abducted and fingers being cut off to force compliance. She suggested the Nancy Guthrie case may follow this pattern, with the masked suspect acting as hired muscle while a more sophisticated operator directs from afar.

The retired detective described the masked man’s actions in the surveillance footage as amateurish, calling him a “bit of a doofus” based on his dress and how he carried his firearm. She contrasted this with elements of sophistication she believes exist in the overall kidnapping.

Savannah Guthrie’s Messages

Miller pointed to video messages released by Nancy Guthrie’s daughter, “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, along with siblings Camron and Annie. In those appeals, Savannah urged the kidnappers to return her mother safely.

The former detective said some of the language used in the messages aligned with hostage negotiation training. She suggested the FBI would not have asked the family to record the videos unless they believed there was substance to initial ransom communications.

Investigation Status

As of May 23, 2026, no suspects have been named and no arrests made in the case. The FBI and local authorities continue to investigate. The family has offered a substantial reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s safe return.

Miller theorized that the mastermind behind the abduction could be located in another country and may have used encrypted apps like Signal to coordinate with street-level operatives. She expressed hope that someone with knowledge of the crime would come forward.

Background on the Case

Nancy Guthrie, mother of Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing on Feb. 1, 2026. Investigators believe she was abducted from her residence. The case has drawn national attention due to Savannah Guthrie’s prominent role on the “Today” show.

The family has cooperated with law enforcement while making public appeals. Civilian searches, including those conducted by YouTubers, have continued in the Tucson area. One such search on May 7 led to the discovery of an ancient human bone unrelated to the case.

Expert Analysis

Miller, who has experience in major crimes, suggested the perpetrators may have targeted the family due to perceived wealth connected to Savannah Guthrie’s public profile and television appearances. She noted that Nancy Guthrie had also appeared on television.

The theory highlights a potential disconnect between the apparent amateur nature of the porch surveillance and more calculated elements of the overall crime. Miller emphasized that masterminds in such schemes often remain shielded behind layers of separation from direct action.

Public and Media Response

The Nancy Guthrie case has generated widespread media coverage and public interest. Discussions on social media platforms have included speculation about motives and the masked suspect’s identity. Law enforcement has urged the public to report any relevant tips while cautioning against interfering with active investigations.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department and FBI continue to process leads. No major breakthroughs have been publicly announced since the initial release of surveillance footage.

Family Impact

Savannah Guthrie has balanced her professional responsibilities on the “Today” show with personal efforts to find her mother. The family has described Nancy Guthrie as a loving matriarch and has asked for privacy while the investigation proceeds.

The case has raised awareness about elder safety and home security. Local authorities in the Tucson area have reminded residents to review home surveillance systems and report suspicious activity.

Ongoing Search Efforts

Volunteer searches continue in desert areas around Tucson. Professional teams have utilized specialized equipment and dogs in targeted zones. The rugged terrain and time elapsed since the disappearance present significant challenges.

Miller concluded her analysis by stating she does not believe the perpetrator is invincible and that a break in the case could come from someone with inside knowledge coming forward.

SAN ANTONIO — The Oklahoma City Thunder rallied from a 15-point first-quarter deficit to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 123-108 on May 22, 2026, at Frost Bank Center and take a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals.

The Thunder outscored the Spurs 97-77 after the opening period. Oklahoma City’s bench produced 76 points, a standout contribution in the victory.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 26 points and 12 assists. Jared McCain scored 24 points off the bench, and Jaylin Williams added 18 points, including five three-pointers.

Victor Wembanyama paced the Spurs with 26 points. The Spurs’ bench managed only 23 points in the contest.

Game Flow and Key Runs

The Spurs jumped to an early 15-point lead in the first quarter. The Thunder responded with strong play in the second and third quarters, outscoring San Antonio 69-53 in those periods.

Oklahoma City controlled the tempo after the slow start, leveraging depth and defensive pressure. The Thunder shot efficiently and forced turnovers that led to transition opportunities.

Injury Context

Jalen Williams missed the game for the Thunder due to a right hamstring strain. For the Spurs, De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper were both questionable entering the contest with ankle and adductor issues, respectively. Their availability impacted San Antonio’s backcourt depth.

The Spurs relied on Victor Wembanyama and supporting cast members amid the guard injuries. Harrison Barnes and Jordan McLaughlin saw increased minutes in the backcourt rotation.

Series Background

The series opened with the Spurs winning Game 1 in double overtime 122-115 in Oklahoma City, powered by Wembanyama’s 41 points and 24 rebounds along with Harper’s 24 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and seven steals.

In Game 2 on May 20, the Thunder responded with a 122-113 home victory behind Gilgeous-Alexander’s 30 points and nine assists. Harper left that game in the third quarter with the adductor injury.

Statistical Breakdown

The Thunder finished with balanced scoring contributions. Their bench dominance proved decisive, with multiple reserves reaching double figures. Oklahoma City improved to 2-1 in the series with the road win.

San Antonio shot well in stretches but struggled to sustain momentum. The Spurs’ second-half output could not match the Thunder’s depth. Rebounding and assist numbers favored Oklahoma City in key statistical categories.

Notable Performances

Gilgeous-Alexander orchestrated the offense efficiently despite early defensive attention. McCain’s scoring outburst provided a major spark for the visitors. Williams’ three-point shooting stretched the floor.

For the Spurs, Wembanyama delivered another strong outing but received limited consistent support from the perimeter. The team’s guard absences limited ball movement and creation at times.

Coaching and Strategy

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault utilized deep rotations to maintain pressure. The strategy of wearing down the Spurs through bench waves proved effective over the 48 minutes.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson managed limited guard options and leaned heavily on Wembanyama in the paint. Adjustments in the second half focused on cutting into the deficit but came up short.

Home-Court Atmosphere

The game marked the first Western Conference Finals contest at Frost Bank Center in 2026. Legends David Robinson and Tim Duncan attended the matchup. The crowd provided vocal support early but witnessed the Thunder’s comeback.

Broader Playoff Implications

The victory gave Oklahoma City the series lead for the first time. Historical data indicates teams winning Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead in such series advance at a high rate. Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday, May 24, in San Antonio.

The Thunder, as defending champions, have shown resilience through injuries. The Spurs have demonstrated competitiveness in the postseason despite health challenges to key guards.

Upcoming Schedule

Game 4 remains in San Antonio. The series could return to Oklahoma City for Game 5 if necessary. Both teams will monitor injury recoveries closely heading into the next contest.

Full game highlights circulated widely on platforms following the final buzzer, showcasing the Thunder’s bench scoring runs and key defensive stops. The 123-108 margin reflected Oklahoma City’s control after the initial Spurs surge.

NEW YORK — The New York Times Strands puzzle for May 23, 2026, numbered 811, had the theme “Staying alive” with the spangram SURVIVALIST, according to official solutions and review sites.

The six theme words were MACHETE, HATCHET, FLINT, PARACORD, TARP and SHOVEL. These items represent essential equipment for enduring the great outdoors and wilderness survival situations.

The spangram SURVIVALIST describes a person exceptionally prepared or skilled at staying alive in the wilderness using minimal resources. It typically spans the grid from one side to the other.

Puzzle Details and Solving Path

Strands presents a 6×8 grid of letters where players connect adjacent letters horizontally, vertically or diagonally to form words. The game includes one spangram that captures the overarching theme and several additional theme words. Non-theme words can be submitted for hints after finding three.

Many solvers identified SURVIVALIST early, which unlocked the remaining words related to survival gear. MACHETE and HATCHET provided cutting tools, while FLINT referred to fire-starting material. PARACORD served as versatile rope, TARP as shelter material and SHOVEL for digging or utility.

The puzzle reset at midnight local time. Players who submitted non-theme words received progressive hints, including the first three letters of remaining words: FLI for FLINT, HAT for HATCHET, MAC for MACHETE, PAR for PARACORD, SHO for SHOVEL and TAR for TARP.

Previous Day Comparison

The May 22, 2026, puzzle No. 810 featured the theme related to large scale with the spangram ITSBIG and words including ASTRONOMIC, BOUNDLESS, EPIC, IMMENSE, VAST and WHOPPING.

Game Mechanics

Strands is part of The New York Times Games portfolio alongside Wordle, Connections and others. Players must use each letter exactly once across all valid words. The spangram is highlighted in yellow upon discovery, while theme words appear in blue. A perfect solve shows a specific pattern of indicators.

The May 23 edition fell on a Saturday. Community feedback noted the outdoor survival theme resonated with players familiar with camping, hiking and emergency preparedness. The words focused on rugged tools and gear used in wild or emergency situations.

Strategies Reported by Solvers

Common starting approaches included scanning for longer words or obvious compounds like PARACORD. Many began in corners or looked for tool-related terms after recognizing the survival theme. Finding the spangram first often simplified the remaining grid.

The New York Times publishes a Sidekick companion with hints. For puzzle 811, it encouraged thinking about practical endurance and wilderness preparation items typically packed in emergency kits or bug-out bags.

Popularity and Context

Strands has maintained steady engagement since its expansion in the NYT Games lineup. The daily format encourages vocabulary, pattern recognition and lateral thinking. Saturday puzzles sometimes incorporate practical or adventure-related themes like the May 23 edition.

On May 23, 2026, the puzzle aligned with other NYT games: Wordle answer CHUCK and Connections categories including hairdos, more readily, Marvel characters and Star Wars movie title elements.

Broader NYT Games Ecosystem

The New York Times offers Strands through its website and mobile app. Basic daily play is free, with subscriptions providing archives and additional features. The game requires finding all theme words and the spangram to complete the board fully.

No major rule changes were reported for Strands in 2026. The format continues to blend word search and crossword elements, with the spangram providing the thematic anchor. Difficulty varies by grid arrangement and word familiarity.

Community Engagement

Solvers shared results on social platforms using indicator grids that avoid full spoilers. Discussions highlighted the utility-focused vocabulary in the May 23 puzzle. Some noted connections to real-world survival skills and outdoor activities.

Performance tracking includes solve times, hint usage and perfect completion rates. The purple-level challenge in related games like Connections often draws comparisons to Strands’ spangram difficulty.

Historical Notes

Strands builds on the success of other NYT word games launched or acquired in recent years. Puzzle numbering reached the 800s by mid-2026, reflecting consistent daily output. Each edition adds to an archive of thematic challenges.

The May 23 solution emphasized single-word items with specific manual functions in primitive or outdoor technology contexts. Official answers are confirmed directly from The New York Times sources after the daily reset.

Players who missed the May 23 puzzle can reference solution archives. The game continues to attract participants seeking a balance of accessibility and intellectual challenge through its letter grid format.

Multi Commodity Exchange of India saw retail holding value rise by Rs 602 crore during the quarter. Retail investors held Rs 8,835 crore worth of shares at the end of March 2026 versus Rs 8,233 crore in December 2025, while the stock gained 7.31%.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

NEW YORK — The New York Times Connections Sports Edition puzzle for May 23, 2026, numbered 613, featured four sports-themed categories with the following groupings according to official solutions published by review sites.

The yellow category, rated easiest, was “defeat soundly.” The words were CRUSH, PASTE, ROUT and SHELLAC.

The green category was “a Missouri athlete.” The words were BLUE, CHIEF, ROYAL and CARDINAL.

The blue category was “college coaches.” The words were CIGNETTI, DAY, FICKELL and RHULE.

The purple category was “baseball terms or names.” The words were BASE, CUT, FINISH and MENDOZA.

The 16 words in the grid were PASTE, CUT, FINISH, DAY, CHIEF, CIGNETTI, MENDOZA, ROUT, FICKELL, BASE, ROYAL, BLUE, RHULE, SHELLAC, CARDINAL and CRUSH.

Game Mechanics

Connections Sports Edition follows the standard Connections format but focuses exclusively on sports-related themes. Players sort 16 words into four groups of four based on common threads. The game provides color-coded feedback: yellow for the easiest category, green for the next, blue for the third and purple for the hardest.

The May 23, 2026, edition emphasized college football coaches, MLB team nicknames associated with Missouri, ways to describe a decisive victory in sports and baseball-specific terminology. Solvers noted the Missouri athlete category linked to Kansas City sports teams and the St. Louis Cardinals.

Previous Day Comparison

The May 22, 2026, Connections Sports Edition puzzle No. 612 included these categories: attributes for a baseball pitcher with CONTROL, COMMAND, VELOCITY and STAMINA; NHL teams familiarly with HABS, AVS, CANES and ISLES; can follow the word “Texas” with RANGERS, LONGHORNS, TECH and LEAGUER; and members of the Cincinnati Reds with SINGER, STEER, DE LA CRUZ and BURNS.

Solving Strategies

Many players started with obvious sports victory terms such as CRUSH and ROUT, which quickly unlocked the yellow category. The Missouri athlete group connected through professional sports franchises in the state. College coaches required knowledge of current NCAA football head coaches.

The purple category proved most challenging for some, linking baseball concepts including base, cut, finish and Mendoza, the latter referring to the Mendoza Line in baseball statistics.

Popularity of Sports Edition

Connections Sports Edition, launched as a beta version by The New York Times and The Athletic, has gained a dedicated following among sports fans. The daily puzzle complements the standard Connections game and attracts players interested in athletics, coaching names, team nicknames and sports terminology.

On May 23, 2026, the puzzle coincided with ongoing NBA Western Conference Finals coverage between the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs, adding relevance for basketball fans following playoff action.

Companion Resources

The New York Times and partner sites provide hints and companion articles for each puzzle. For No. 613, progressive hints included sports victory synonyms and Missouri sports references. Third-party solvers offered practice boards and reveal assistants.

Broader NYT Games Context

The Sports Edition runs alongside regular Connections, which on May 23, 2026, had categories for hairdos, more readily, Marvel characters and Star Wars movie title words. Other games that day included Wordle with answer CHUCK and Strands with survival theme.

Players access the puzzle through The Athletic or New York Times platforms. Basic play is available daily, with subscriptions offering additional features and archives. The sports version maintains the same four-mistake limit before the puzzle ends.

Community Response

Solvers discussed the puzzle on forums, noting the college coaches category required familiarity with current NCAA leadership. The Missouri athlete group stood out for fans of Kansas City Chiefs, Royals and St. Louis Cardinals. Discussions highlighted how the puzzle tested knowledge across multiple sports.

Performance metrics shared by users included perfect solve rates and time to completion. Saturday puzzles often feature a mix of timely and evergreen sports topics.

Historical Development

Connections Sports Edition expanded The New York Times’ games portfolio in recent years. By mid-2026, puzzle numbering reached the 600s, indicating regular daily releases. Each edition draws from diverse sports including football, baseball, hockey and basketball.

The May 23 solution blended current coaching names with classic sports terminology, typical of the game’s educational and entertaining balance. Official answers are confirmed post-reset by The New York Times.

Tips for Players

Effective strategies include grouping obvious sports terms first and eliminating confirmed categories. Knowledge of major league team nicknames, prominent coaches and statistical terms aids solving. New players can use practice modes on helper sites.

The game encourages engagement with sports culture while building pattern recognition skills. Difficulty varies, with purple categories often requiring deeper sports knowledge.