Unknown DNA Collected from Nancy Guthrie's Property, Sheriff Says

Investigators are working to identify DNA found at the missing woman's home as the search continues.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said investigators have recovered DNA from several gloves and other potential evidence at Nancy Guthrie's property. The DNA samples are now being compared to those of associates, including family members and household help, in an effort to identify the source and eliminate people. Nanos expressed hope that they are "getting closer" to solving the case, though the individual detained earlier this week is not fully cleared.

Why it matters

The discovery of unknown DNA at Guthrie's home is a significant development in the ongoing investigation into her disappearance. Identifying the source of the DNA could provide crucial clues about what happened and who may be involved.

The details

Sheriff Nanos said several gloves have been found throughout an expanded search zone within a 10-mile radius of Guthrie's home, though no gloves were found at her house itself. Investigators planned to return to the home to take additional measurements from the front doorway, where a suspect was seen on video. They are also trying to trace the point of sale of a backpack the suspect was seen carrying at a Walmart. The individual detained earlier this week for questioning, who identified himself as Carlos, has been released and is under no law enforcement restrictions, though the sheriff said "nobody's fully cleared."

  • On February 13, 2026, the Pima County Sheriff's Department provided an update on the investigation.

The players

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff who provided the update on the investigation.

Nancy Guthrie

The missing woman whose property is the focus of the investigation.

Carlos

An individual who was detained for questioning but has since been released.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We've gotten DNA back. They already have the genetic markers of those that we think had access to the home. Now we have to go through and try to eliminate people.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (ABC News)

“If Nancy's out there, we're going to find her. We're not giving up.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (ABC News)

What’s next

Investigators planned to return to Guthrie's house as soon as Friday to take additional measurements from the front doorway where the suspect was seen.

The takeaway

The discovery of unknown DNA at Nancy Guthrie's property is a significant development in the investigation, as it could provide crucial clues about what happened to her. The sheriff's department remains determined to find Guthrie and is working closely with the FBI to solve the case.