The FBI is actively reviewing new biological and DNA evidence related to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, who is 84 years old and the mother of NBC anchor Savannah Guthrie. She was last seen at her home in Tucson during the early hours of February 1 after what is believed to be a kidnapping.
As reported by Fox News, investigators have gathered various DNA samples, including a hair, from Guthrie’s residence in Catalonia Foothills, which are now being analyzed. These samples will undergo advanced testing utilizing next-generation technology.
Additional samples from a glove found two miles away from her home have also been collected.
The DNA profiles were initially entered into the FBI’s Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), the national database for genetic records of convicted offenders and certain arrestees, but returned no matches. Consequently, authorities are turning to investigative genetic genealogy (IGG), a method to match crime scene DNA with public genealogy databases to identify potential relatives and narrow down suspects.
It’s important to note that some DNA recovered from the residence includes mixed profiles, indicating that genetic material from multiple individuals has been found.
CeCe Moore, a renowned investigative genetic genealogist at Parabon Nanolabs, remarked to Fox News that processing the hair sample should not present significant challenges. She stated, “They have that process in good shape, but it can take some time.”
Representatives from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) have indicated their ongoing collaboration with the FBI lab throughout the investigation. They clarified via X that they have been in constant communication with the FBI since the beginning of this case.
Guthrie was last seen on January 31 when her son-in-law dropped her off around 9:50 p.m. The family alerted authorities the next day after she missed a church function.
Investigators have detected blood and other DNA evidence on the property, reinforcing their belief that she was abducted. Surveillance footage from a doorbell camera shows a masked figure, who disabled the camera, approaching the house.
While leads have been pursued, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been officially identified. Some media outlets received ransom notes demanding cryptocurrency payments, though one individual was arrested for sending a false note unrelated to the case. Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have been cleared as suspects and are actively cooperating with investigators.
