Full Breakdown
Investigation Continues in Nancy Guthrie Abduction Case
2/18/2026, 9:59:56 PM
Key Facts of the Case
Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has been missing since February 1, 2023. Authorities believe she was abducted from her home in Tucson, Arizona, during the night. The Pima County Sheriff's Department, along with the FBI, is actively investigating the case, focusing on various pieces of evidence, including DNA, clothing, and a backpack linked to the suspect.
Evidence and Leads
Investigators have identified a black Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack, which they believe was used by the suspect. This backpack was exclusively sold at Walmart, and authorities are currently reviewing surveillance footage from local Walmart stores to determine where it was purchased. Sheriff Chris Nanos described the backpack as "one of the most promising leads" in the investigation. Additionally, a black glove found near Guthrie's home has been subjected to DNA testing; however, the DNA did not match any profiles in the FBI's database, CoDIS. The sheriff confirmed that further analysis of additional DNA evidence collected from Guthrie's property is ongoing.
Official Statements and Responses
Sheriff Nanos reported that the DNA evidence from the gloves was submitted to CoDIS but yielded no matches. He stated, "The DNA that was submitted to CoDIS was from the set of gloves found 2 miles away. It did not trigger a match in CoDIS & did not match DNA found at the property." Savannah Guthrie has publicly expressed her hope for her mother's safe return, stating, "It's been two weeks since our mom was taken, and I just wanted to come on and say we still have hope, and we still believe."
Criticism and Opposition
While the investigation is ongoing, some community members have expressed concern over the pace of the investigation and the lack of immediate leads. The absence of matches in the DNA database has raised questions about the effectiveness of current investigative methods.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the details of the suspect's description. The FBI has characterized the suspect as a male of average build, approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall. However, reports about the suspect's clothing and other identifying features have varied, leading to confusion among the public and investigators.
What's Next
The FBI has increased the reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie's whereabouts or the arrest of those involved in her disappearance from $50,000 to $100,000. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to contact the FBI or the Pima County Sheriff's Department.
