Savannah Guthrie's Mother Missing, Sheriff Clears Family of Involvement

New DNA evidence points to masked prowler, as family pleads for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie's safe return

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:20am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a glove with a DNA sample, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the investigative evidence in the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie's mother.A critical DNA breakthrough exposes new evidence in the mysterious disappearance of Savannah Guthrie's mother.Pima Today

The disappearance of Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, has gripped the nation, with the Pima County Sheriff clearing the family of any involvement in her abduction. Investigators have uncovered DNA evidence linking a masked prowler to the crime scene, but the motive and whereabouts of Nancy remain unknown, leaving the Guthrie family in anguish as they plead for her safe return.

Why it matters

The Guthrie family's ordeal has been compounded by cruel speculation, adding insult to their grief. This case highlights the challenges faced by victims' families when they become the subject of public scrutiny, even as they grapple with unimaginable loss.

The details

Nancy Guthrie, who relies on daily medication and a pacemaker, was last seen on January 31 after dining with her family. Investigators have recovered a DNA sample from a glove found near her Arizona home, which appears to match a masked prowler captured on doorbell camera footage the night she disappeared. At least two ransom notes have surfaced, but there has been no direct contact with the family or authorities, raising questions about the captors' motives and Nancy's wellbeing.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31, 2026.
  • The investigation into her disappearance is now in its third week.

The players

Savannah Guthrie

Daughter of the missing Nancy Guthrie, who has released emotional video pleas for her mother's safe return.

Camron Guthrie

Son of the missing Nancy Guthrie, who has joined his sister Savannah in pleading for their mother's safe return.

Annie Guthrie

Daughter of the missing Nancy Guthrie, who has joined her siblings in pleading for their mother's safe return.

Chris Nanos

Pima County Sheriff, who has firmly stated that the Guthrie family is not involved in Nancy's abduction and are victims in this case.

Nancy Guthrie

An 84-year-old woman who relies on daily medication and a pacemaker, and was last seen on January 31, 2026, after dining with her family.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“They are victims, plain and simple.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff

“There's no proof of death, but the lack of proof of life leaves everyone on edge.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff

What’s next

The FBI has released footage of the masked individual, who appears to be carrying a holstered firearm, further intensifying the urgency of the case. Investigators continue to search for clues and hope to establish contact with the captors to ensure Nancy Guthrie's safe return.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges faced by victims' families when they become the subject of public scrutiny, even as they grapple with unimaginable loss. The Guthrie family's ordeal serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and support for those affected by such tragic circumstances.