Latest Updates on the Disappearance of Nancy Guthrie
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is deepening its investigation into the mysterious disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie as law enforcement follows new forensic leads and surveillance evidence. Recent developments include the discovery of DNA at her property that does not match Guthrie or those close to her, and a detailed suspect description released by the FBI. The sheriff’s office also said it will not hold a media briefing tonight but expects to share a written update when available.
Join the conversation below — share tips or local observations that may help the investigation.
DNA Evidence Found at Guthrie’s Property
Investigators working the case reported that DNA collected from Nancy Guthrie’s Tucson, Arizona, property belongs to someone other than the missing woman or her close contacts. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said that the additional DNA is being analyzed and law enforcement is pursuing leads based on this evidence. Officials did not disclose the specific location where the DNA was found on the property, but they confirmed it does not match Guthrie or those known to be connected to her. Law enforcement hopes this development will help narrow the focus of the investigation and possibly identify individuals who were present around the time of her disappearance.
The sheriff’s office said it will issue updates as progress is made, and emphasized that this evidence is part of a broader forensic effort that also includes examining physical items collected near the scene.
FBI Seeks Man in Ozark Trail Backpack in Guthrie Case
The FBI has provided a description of a person of interest in connection with the disappearance. According to the bureau, investigators are looking for a man estimated to be between 5’9″ and 5’10” tall with an average build. Surveillance images show him wearing a black Ozark Trail backpack on the porch of Guthrie’s home on the evening she went missing.
This description was generated after forensic analysis of doorbell camera footage from Jan. 31, when Guthrie was last seen. The FBI disseminated these details publicly to encourage tips from the community and surrounding areas. So far, the identity of this individual remains unknown and efforts are ongoing to match the footage with known individuals or credible sightings.
Pima County Sheriff’s Department’s Statement on the Investigation
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department clarified that there will be no media briefing tonight regarding the case but indicated that a written update will be released when there are material developments to report. This continued coordination between local law enforcement and federal agencies underscores the complexity of the investigation and the need to maintain procedural integrity while analyzing evidence.
Sheriff Chris Nanos has repeatedly said that the department is working cooperatively with the FBI and that evidence — including DNA and physical items — is being thoroughly tested. The department has also responded to previous reports and rumors surrounding evidence handling and insisted that all findings are being shared with federal partners under standard investigative protocols.
Expanded Search and Evidence Collection
In addition to forensic DNA analysis, law enforcement has expanded its search radius beyond Guthrie’s immediate property. Several gloves and other items have been recovered at varying distances from the home. Deputies and FBI agents are testing these materials for any connection to the case.
A significant law enforcement presence has been noted in nearby neighborhoods as investigators follow up on leads and review security footage from the area. Deputies have asked neighbors within a two-mile radius to review video footage from home security systems for anything unusual around the time Guthrie disappeared.
Surveillance Footage and Public Assistance
The FBI released video stills that show an individual wearing gloves and carrying the described backpack near Guthrie’s front door around the time she was last seen. Investigators are urging the public to come forward with any footage or observations that could help identify this person.
In light of these updates, authorities have also appealed directly to residents to share archived video spanning late January through early February. This includes footage that captures vehicles, pedestrians, or other activity in the neighborhood that may be relevant.
Family and Community Response
Guthrie’s children have continued to appeal for information and help in finding their mother. They have urged anyone with potential information — no matter how small — to reach out to law enforcement. The case has drawn significant attention nationwide, with many people offering tips and support through official channels.
Although the investigation remains active, no arrests have been announced, and the whereabouts of Nancy Guthrie are still unknown. The discovery of third-party DNA and the suspect description are among the most recent tangible developments in the case, giving law enforcement new avenues to explore.
What’s Next in the Investigation
Law enforcement officials have stated that investigators are actively examining all available evidence, including DNA, surveillance footage, and physical items found near Guthrie’s home. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department continues to deny any rift between local and federal agencies, emphasizing that collaborative efforts are ongoing.
Tips from the public remain a critical part of the case, and authorities have reiterated their commitment to pursuing every lead. The sheriff’s office said it will continue to update the public as new, substantive developments occur.
Thank you for reading. Please comment with observations or tips that could assist authorities, and stay tuned for further updates as this investigation evolves.