Investigators are actively pursuing leads in the disappearance case of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother, Nancy Guthrie, who went missing on January 31 in Tucson, Arizona. The Pima County Sheriff’s Office is consulting with Walmart management to explore the possibility of tracing a backpack worn by a suspect during the incident. Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed that the 25-liter “Ozark Trail Hiker Pack” backpack, which is exclusive to Walmart, has been identified as a significant piece of evidence.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was reported missing the day after her last sighting at her home. Disturbingly, authorities discovered blood belonging to her on the front porch. Further complicating matters, ransom notes purportedly linked to her disappearance were sent to various news outlets, with multiple deadlines for payments that have since passed without any response.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released surveillance footage showing a masked individual carrying what appears to be a handgun holster outside the Guthrie residence on the night Nancy went missing. A porch camera captured video of a person dressed in a ski mask, long pants, a jacket, and gloves, further contributing to investigators' concerns over her safety.
Authorities emphasized the exclusivity of the backpack identified, stating that while the clothing worn by the suspect could have been purchased at Walmart, it is not exclusive to their stores. Sheriff Nanos mentioned in a statement that they are cooperating with Walmart to develop additional leads surrounding the suspect.
As part of the ongoing investigation, a glove found near the Guthrie home has been sent for DNA testing, and preliminary results have been obtained. These updates coincide with the search for Nancy, which has now extended into its third week. Despite an extensive investigation, law enforcement has yet to name any suspects in the case.
The FBI has described the individual seen in the surveillance footage as a man approximately 5 feet, 9 inches tall with a medium build. In a reassuring note, Sheriff Nanos has confirmed that Nancy Guthrie’s family members, including her siblings and their spouses, are not considered suspects and have been cooperative throughout the investigation.
In addition to the urgent search efforts, there is growing concern regarding Nancy's health. It has been reported that she requires vital daily medication and has a pacemaker due to existing health issues, including high blood pressure and heart-related problems, as noted in audio from a sheriff's dispatcher.
