Investigators in Arizona are expanding their efforts in the disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, as law enforcement officials confirm they have not ruled out the possibility that more than one person may have been involved in her suspected abduction.
According to Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, authorities are actively exploring whether an accomplice could have assisted the man captured on doorbell camera footage outside Guthrie’s Tucson home the night she vanished. The case has drawn nationwide attention, especially given Guthrie’s connection to “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie, who is her granddaughter.
A Nighttime Disappearance Caught on Camera
Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on February 1 after authorities believe she was forcibly taken from her home in the middle of the night. Surveillance footage from her Google Nest doorbell camera shows a man outside the residence during the critical timeframe.
The FBI released the footage last week in hopes that someone might recognize the individual. Investigators described the man as approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall with an average build.
So far, that video is the only footage recovered from the home’s camera system. Google engineers are reportedly still working to retrieve additional data from other cameras installed on the property. Authorities remain hopeful that more usable video may surface through ongoing technical analysis.
Sheriff Nanos has stated that investigators believe the abduction was targeted, though officials have not publicly named a suspect or person of interest.
Family Fully Cooperated, Cleared by Authorities
Early speculation surrounding the case included scrutiny of family members, but the sheriff’s department confirmed Monday that Savannah Guthrie, her siblings, and their spouses have all been cleared as suspects.
Sheriff Nanos emphasized the extent of the family’s cooperation.
“We really put them through the wringer,” he said, explaining that investigators conducted interviews and examined vehicles, homes, and phones. “They have been 100% cooperative with us through everything we’ve asked. They are victims. They are not suspects.”
Law enforcement officials stressed that the family voluntarily provided access to their property and devices, assisting in every way requested.
DNA Evidence Raises New Questions
One of the most significant developments in the case involves DNA evidence recovered from a pair of gloves found approximately two miles from Guthrie’s home.
Authorities confirmed that DNA extracted from the gloves did not match any profiles in the FBI’s national database. Additionally, the DNA did not match other biological evidence collected from the residence.
As a result, investigators are now turning to genetic genealogy — a technique that has been used in recent years to identify suspects through extended family DNA connections.
Meanwhile, biological evidence collected inside the home remains under laboratory analysis.
The expansion of DNA testing has intensified hope among investigators that a breakthrough may still be possible.
Tracking Technology and Additional Leads
Law enforcement sources also revealed that investigators used a signal-detecting device — sometimes referred to as a “signal sniffer” — to attempt to track potential transmissions from Guthrie’s heart pacemaker.
Reports indicate that the pacemaker showed a disconnect from her phone in the early morning hours on the night she disappeared. Authorities have not released further details about what that disconnect may indicate, but the timing is considered significant.
Additionally, the FBI is reviewing recent gun purchases in the Tucson area. A local gun store owner confirmed that an agent showed him multiple images and names while inquiring about purchases made within the last year.
Officials have not disclosed how firearm transactions may relate to the case but described the review as part of a broader investigative effort.
Rewards Exceed $200,000
The urgency surrounding the case has led to a substantial increase in reward money for information.
The 88-CRIME tipline reward recently jumped to $102,500 after an anonymous donor contributed $100,000. This amount is separate from the $100,000 reward offered by the FBI.
Combined, the total available reward now exceeds $200,000.
Authorities are urging anyone with information — no matter how minor it may seem — to come forward.
Could There Be an Accomplice?
The possibility of an accomplice has added a new dimension to the investigation.
Chip Massey, a former FBI hostage negotiator, told CBS News that managing a kidnapping — especially one involving an elderly victim who was reportedly wounded — would present significant logistical challenges for a single individual.
“He has to control somebody that he has taken hostage, that he has to maintain her health,” Massey said. “He has to look after her wounds. He has to take care of her daily needs — everything from food to water.”
Massey suggested that having an accomplice could make those demands more manageable for the suspect.
But he also noted that involving more than one person increases pressure.
“When two people are keeping a secret, nerves are frayed,” Massey explained. “There’s going to be arguments, there’s going to be stress.”
From a law enforcement standpoint, that pressure can create opportunities.
“What happens when one breaks away?” Massey asked. “What happens if they make that call?”
Investigators have not confirmed that an accomplice was involved, but they have stated they are keeping all possibilities open.
A Community Waiting for Answers
The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has shaken the Tucson community. Neighbors describe the situation as deeply unsettling, especially given the apparent targeted nature of the abduction.
Law enforcement officials continue to pursue every available lead, from advanced DNA analysis to digital evidence recovery and expanded interviews.
Sheriff Nanos has reiterated that the case remains active and that investigators are committed to finding answers.
As the search continues, authorities emphasize that even the smallest tip could make a difference.
With expanding DNA testing, technological tools, and increased reward money, investigators hope the growing pressure will eventually lead to a breakthrough.
For now, the community — and the nation — wait for the next development in a case that has left so many questions unanswered.
