DNA Evidence Leads to Suspect in Arizona Kidnapping

Crucial DNA match found on glove near crime scene of Nancy Guthrie's abduction

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Investigators have obtained a DNA sample from a discarded glove found near the Tucson, Arizona home of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC News journalist Savannah Guthrie. Preliminary findings suggest the DNA matches that of the masked individual seen in doorbell camera footage attempting to disable the camera shortly before Guthrie's abduction two weeks ago, according to the FBI.

Why it matters

This case highlights the increasingly vital role of forensic evidence, particularly DNA analysis, in modern kidnapping investigations. The ability to link a suspect directly to the crime scene through DNA offers a powerful investigative tool, even as investigators face challenges in sifting through numerous pieces of evidence and avoiding contamination.

The details

The glove, one of approximately sixteen collected within a two-mile search zone, proved to be the key piece of evidence. Most other gloves collected belonged to search teams. The speed with which the FBI is processing the DNA sample - with results expected within 24 hours of receipt from a private crime laboratory in Florida - demonstrates advancements in DNA analysis technology. The doorbell camera footage also played a pivotal role in identifying a person of interest, showing the suspect wearing a ski mask, a gun in a holster, and carrying an overstuffed backpack.

  • Two weeks ago, Nancy Guthrie was abducted from her home in Tucson, Arizona.
  • On Friday, investigators confirmed that DNA from a discarded glove near the crime scene matched a suspect seen on doorbell camera footage.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of NBC News journalist Savannah Guthrie, who was kidnapped from her home in Tucson, Arizona.

Savannah Guthrie

The NBC News journalist whose mother, Nancy Guthrie, was kidnapped.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff who stated there was no proof of life, but also no proof of death, regarding Nancy Guthrie.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The FBI is expected to receive the DNA results within 24 hours, which could lead to a swift identification of the suspect.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing importance of forensic evidence, particularly DNA analysis, in modern kidnapping investigations, as well as the challenges investigators face in sifting through numerous pieces of evidence and avoiding contamination.