Investigators Work with Walmart After Identifying Suspect's Backpack in Guthrie Kidnapping

Exclusive backpack sold at Walmart is key evidence in the disappearance of 'Today' host Savannah Guthrie's mother.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Investigators working on the disappearance of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie, are consulting with Walmart management to develop leads because a backpack the suspect was wearing is sold exclusively at the stores. Authorities say Nancy Guthrie's blood was found on the front porch of her Arizona home, where she was last seen on January 31 before being reported missing the next day. The FBI has released surveillance footage of a masked person wearing a handgun holster outside Guthrie's home the night she vanished.

Why it matters

The discovery of the suspect's backpack, which is only sold at Walmart, is a significant break in the case as investigators work to identify and locate the person responsible for Nancy Guthrie's disappearance. Her health issues and the ransom notes sent to news outlets have heightened concerns about her wellbeing.

The details

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said the 25-liter 'Ozark Trail Hiker Pack' backpack was the only clothing item that has been 'definitively identified.' Authorities are working with Walmart management to develop further leads based on this evidence. The suspect's other clothing 'may have been purchased from Walmart but is not exclusively available at Walmart,' according to the sheriff's department.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her Arizona home on January 31, 2026.
  • Guthrie was reported missing the following day, on February 1, 2026.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, who was reported missing from her Arizona home on February 1, 2026.

Savannah Guthrie

The host of the 'Today' show, whose mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing from her Arizona home.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County, Arizona sheriff who is leading the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Ozark Trail

The brand of the 25-liter backpack that was identified as being worn by the suspect, and is sold exclusively at Walmart stores.

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What they’re saying

“This backpack is exclusive to Walmart and we are working with Walmart management to develop further leads.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (The Associated Press)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the suspect out on bail.

The takeaway

The discovery of the suspect's exclusive Walmart backpack is a crucial piece of evidence that could help investigators identify and locate the person responsible for Nancy Guthrie's disappearance. This case highlights the importance of forensic evidence and cooperation between law enforcement and private businesses in solving high-profile crimes.