Story perspectives

FBI Analyzes DNA in Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping Case

4/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is analyzing a DNA sample from Nancy Guthrie's Tucson home in her kidnapping investigation, a hair sample containing DNA from multiple individuals, with five labs involved and six months to isolate profiles.
Savannah Guthrie returned to the Today show and expressed remorse while urging the public for information.
The Guthrie family increased the reward to $1 million for leads on Nancy Guthrie's mother's whereabouts.

History

Historical Context

The kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh Jr. on March 1, 1932, from his home in New Jersey shocked the nation, leading to a $50,000 ransom demand and extensive media coverage. The case, dubbed the "crime of the century," prompted the U.S. to establish federal kidnapping laws. Today, advancements in forensic analysis, such as DNA testing, continue to evolve from the investigative techniques developed during this high-profile case.

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Story summary

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is analyzing a DNA sample from Nancy Guthrie's Tucson home in her kidnapping investigation, a hair sample containing DNA from multiple individuals, with five labs involved and six months to isolate profiles.
Savannah Guthrie returned to the Today show and expressed remorse while urging the public for information.
The Guthrie family increased the reward to $1 million for leads on Nancy Guthrie's mother's whereabouts.

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