The disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie from her Tucson home on February 1, 2026, continues to dominate headlines as the investigation enters its third week. The mother of NBC’s “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie was believed to have been forcibly taken after a masked intruder appeared on her doorbell camera footage in the pre-dawn hours. Initial fears centered on her health vulnerabilities—she requires daily medication, has a pacemaker, and manages high blood pressure and heart issues—heightening urgency in the massive search effort.
Authorities from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, FBI, and supporting agencies have processed tens of thousands of tips—estimates range from 30,000 to 50,000—while deploying drones, K-9 teams, and extensive ground searches across the rugged Catalina Foothills and surrounding desert areas. Early speculation included burglary gone wrong, but no clear motive has emerged, with investigators keeping all possibilities open.
A pivotal development unfolded with the recovery of a black glove approximately two miles from the residence, found in a field near a roadside. The FBI confirmed on February 15-16 that this glove visually matches those worn by the suspect captured on surveillance video: a man around 5’9″ with a medium build, dressed in dark clothing, a ski mask, long pants, jacket, and carrying a 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. Unlike other gloves discarded by searchers in the area (around 16 were noted), this one yielded recoverable DNA.
Preliminary testing revealed an unknown male DNA profile, distinct from Nancy Guthrie or close contacts. The sample was rushed to a private laboratory in Florida for full analysis, with results expected to undergo quality control before entry into CODIS, the national DNA database. Experts note that while preliminary findings arrived quickly, official confirmation and database upload could take additional time—potentially days—before a match (or lack thereof) provides direction.
If no direct CODIS hit occurs, investigators plan to pursue investigative genetic genealogy, comparing the profile against public databases to identify familial links and narrow suspects. Forensic specialists emphasize that touch DNA from a glove can be robust if not heavily degraded, offering a stronger lead than mixed profiles from household surfaces.
In a significant statement on February 16, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos explicitly cleared all Guthrie family members—including Savannah, her siblings Annie and Camron, and their spouses—of any suspicion. “The family has been nothing but cooperative and gracious and are victims in this case plain and simple,” he said, denouncing contrary rumors as “cruel.” This move quelled online speculation that had added unnecessary pain amid the family’s public anguish.
Savannah Guthrie has remained a visible voice of hope and determination. In her latest Instagram video posted over the weekend, she spoke directly to anyone holding her mother or with knowledge: “It’s been two weeks since our mom was taken. And I just wanted to come on and say that we still have hope. And we still believe… It is never too late to do the right thing. You’re not lost or alone.” Delivered alone rather than with siblings as in prior messages, the emotional appeal underscored the family’s enduring optimism despite the ordeal.
The case has drawn widespread attention, amplified by Savannah’s prominence and the dramatic elements: chilling surveillance, a vulnerable senior, and emerging forensic clues. Major outlets including CNN, NBC, CBS, The New York Times, BBC, and others maintain ongoing coverage, with live blogs tracking every update. Public support manifests in candlelight vigils, social media campaigns, and a doubled reward now at $100,000 for information leading to Nancy’s safe return.
Challenges persist. DNA processing delays at the out-of-state lab have slowed momentum, though sources indicate the next 24-48 hours remain critical for potential breakthroughs. Earlier ransom notes sent to media outlets proved fruitless, with passed deadlines adding to the mystery rather than resolution. A person of interest briefly detained was released, highlighting the painstaking verification process.
As February 17, 2026, unfolds, the focus sharpens on that single glove and its DNA. A match could lead to swift identification and rescue; absence might redirect efforts toward genealogy tracing or re-examination of leads. Nancy Guthrie’s gentle spirit, as described by her daughter, fuels prayers nationwide for her safe return.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or Pima County Sheriff’s Department at 520-351-4900. Anonymous tips remain welcome through secure channels. In a story that has united strangers in concern, every detail matters in the race against time.
