The FBI is now analyzing DNA evidence recovered from the Tucson, Arizona, home of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC's 'Today' co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, who was abducted from her residence on February 1. A private Florida lab working with the Pima County Sheriff's Department recently sent the DNA sample to the FBI, which is using advanced technology to conduct the analysis, according to sources familiar with the investigation.
Core Facts & Immediate Action
The DNA evidence includes hair samples and was collected from Guthrie's home. The FBI's involvement marks a significant development in the case, as investigators previously tested a glove found near the scene but found no matches in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). Blood found on the porch of Guthrie's home was confirmed to belong to her.
Deeper Dive & Context
Investigation Details
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos previously stated that the DNA sample from the home contained mixed genetic material, which could take weeks to months to untangle. He also mentioned that five other labs across the country are assisting in the investigation, though their specific roles remain unclear. The glove recovered near the scene did not match any known criminals in CODIS and did not correspond to other samples found inside the home.
Public Appeal & Reward
Authorities and Guthrie's family have repeatedly urged the public for assistance. A $1.2 million reward is being offered for information leading to her recovery, with $1 million contributed by the Guthrie family. The family has asked anyone with information to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Timeline & Background
Guthrie was last seen at her home in the Catalina Foothills neighborhood of Tucson on January 31. The multiagency search involves local law enforcement and the FBI. Sheriff Nanos has emphasized that the investigation remains active, with ongoing efforts to analyze the DNA evidence and other potential leads.