KEY POINT
- Law enforcement executed a search warrant at a home close to Guthrie’s residence in Tucson, Arizona, but no suspects were taken into custody.
- The FBI released additional suspect details, describing a male of average build, approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall, carrying an Ozark Trail Hiker backpack, captured in doorbell camera footage.
- DNA recovered at Guthrie’s home does not match her or any known associates, and forensic teams continue to examine potential links to the suspect.
TUCSON, Ariz. — Federal and local authorities intensified efforts Friday night in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, an 84 year old woman reported missing nearly two weeks ago, but no arrests were made following a search of a nearby residence, officials said Saturday.
Investigators continue to analyze surveillance footage, DNA evidence, and public tips in what has become a highly visible missing person case.
Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie, vanished from her Tucson home on Feb. 1, 2026. Her disappearance sparked a multi agency investigation involving the FBI, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, and local law enforcement, who are treating the case as a potential abduction. The urgency of the investigation is heightened by Guthrie’s age and medical vulnerabilities.
Initial evidence includes doorbell camera footage capturing a masked individual near Guthrie’s home shortly before she was reported missing.
The FBI has released further details about the suspect, noting his height, build, and distinctive backpack. Investigators say this information is intended to encourage public reporting of sightings and reduce irrelevant tips.
Authorities have also emphasized that thousands of tips submitted through local and federal channels are being carefully reviewed. In addition, forensic analysis of DNA and physical evidence recovered from the Guthrie property is ongoing.
Experts in criminal investigations stress the importance of meticulous evidence review in cases without immediate suspects.
Dr. Lena Morris, criminology professor at the University of Arizona, explained:
“Complex missing person cases require careful cross referencing of physical evidence with digital surveillance. Rapid action without verification can lead to missteps, so patience is critical.”
Former FBI agent Mark Ellis, now a security consultant, noted: “Releasing descriptive details such as clothing, equipment, and height allows the public to assist effectively. When combined with forensic evidence, it strengthens the investigative process.”
These insights underscore why authorities have conducted extensive operations, including the recent search of a residence near Guthrie’s home, despite no arrests being made.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said the search was based on specific leads. “We executed the warrant and followed up on credible information, but no arrests were made, and no one remains in custody,” he said.
FBI spokesperson Michael Cheeseman added: “We are carefully processing forensic evidence and reviewing all public tips. Every credible piece of information is evaluated to determine its investigative value.”
Family members, including Savannah Guthrie, have made public appeals for information while maintaining privacy regarding their direct communications with authorities.
Officials say the focus remains on forensic testing and reviewing surveillance and community submissions. Investigators are especially interested in DNA that does not match Guthrie or known contacts, which could provide critical leads.
Authorities are urging residents near Guthrie’s neighborhood to check security cameras and report any unusual activity between Jan. 31 and Feb. 2.
Analysts say that community engagement is likely to remain a central part of the investigation in the coming weeks.
As the investigation reaches its third week, the search for Nancy Guthrie continues with no arrests but with expanding forensic and digital evidence.
Law enforcement emphasizes methodical analysis of leads to ensure accuracy and to increase the likelihood of locating Guthrie or identifying those responsible for her disappearance.
