FBI Announces Critical DNA Development in Nancy Guthrie Investigation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has reported a significant forensic breakthrough in the ongoing search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of prominent NBC News anchor Savannah Guthrie. This development comes as the investigation into her disappearance from Tucson, Arizona, enters its third week, with authorities intensifying their efforts to locate the missing elderly woman.
Surveillance Footage and Forensic Evidence Connection
Investigators have revealed that a glove discovered approximately two miles from Nancy Guthrie's residence appears to match those worn by an individual captured on chilling doorbell camera footage from the night she vanished. The surveillance video shows a masked person wearing gloves attempting to interfere with the camera system during the early hours of February 1st, shortly after Nancy was last seen by family members on January 31st.
While searchers have recovered sixteen gloves near the property, most discarded by volunteers, an FBI spokesperson confirmed to Fox News that one particular glove stands out. "The glove containing the recovered DNA profile is distinct and appears to correspond with the gloves worn by the subject visible in the surveillance footage," the spokesperson stated, marking what retired NYPD Lieutenant Dr. Darrin Porcher described as "truly a breakthrough" in the investigation.
DNA Analysis and Investigation Progress
The critical glove evidence has been transported to a private laboratory in Florida for comprehensive DNA analysis. Preliminary results have been obtained, though the complete DNA profile has not yet been entered into the FBI's Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) forensic database, which could potentially identify matches with known individuals.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos indicated that final DNA results remain pending, with processing potentially requiring one to ten additional days. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has reportedly allocated approximately £147,000 for evidence processing through their contracted Florida laboratory, underscoring the substantial resources dedicated to this case.
Investigation Details and Public Response
Authorities have released an updated physical description of their primary suspect, identified as a male standing between 5 feet 9 inches and 5 feet 10 inches tall with an average build. The individual was observed carrying a black, 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack during the apparent incident. The FBI expressed hope that this refined description would help focus the substantial volume of public tips received.
The investigation has generated remarkable public engagement, with law enforcement receiving more than 13,000 tips and nearly 18,000 related calls. In response to the prolonged search, the FBI has increased its reward to $100,000 for information leading to Nancy Guthrie's recovery or an arrest in connection with her disappearance.
Case Background and Family Connection
Nancy Guthrie was reported missing after members of her local church noted her absence from Sunday services and alerted family members. Her daughter, Savannah Guthrie, serves as co-anchor of NBC's Today show, chief legal correspondent for NBC News, and a primary anchor for the network's election coverage, adding significant public attention to the case.
A source close to the investigation revealed growing frustration among investigators, emphasizing that "every hour matters and every piece of evidence matters" when an elderly individual remains missing. While three individuals were detained during a separate police operation near Nancy's neighborhood, their connection to the disappearance remains unclear at this stage of the investigation.
