FBI Analyzing Glove Linked to Nancy Guthrie Disappearance

Authorities race to find missing 'Today' host's mother as search enters 13th day

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, mother of 'Today' show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has captivated the nation. As the search enters its thirteenth day, the FBI is analyzing a recovered glove that appears to match those worn by a suspect seen in surveillance footage. The case highlights evolving trends in missing persons investigations, including the increasing role of forensic genealogy and challenges of inter-agency cooperation.

Why it matters

The Nancy Guthrie case underscores the critical importance of rapid response, advanced forensic techniques, and seamless collaboration between law enforcement agencies in missing persons investigations, especially those involving vulnerable individuals. The outcome could set new precedents for how such cases are handled in the future.

The details

The search for the 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie has been extensive, involving helicopters, canine units, and hundreds of law enforcement personnel. Authorities have received thousands of tips, demonstrating the power of community involvement facilitated by media coverage and social media appeals. However, the decision by Pima County Sheriff's Department to send key evidence to a private lab rather than the FBI's Quantico facility has drawn criticism, raising questions about inter-agency cooperation. Forensic genealogy, while powerful, also has limitations, and the case highlights the need for clear protocols and collaboration between agencies to ensure the most effective use of these technologies.

  • The search for Nancy Guthrie, who went missing on January 1, 2026, has entered its thirteenth day.
  • On February 15, 2026, the FBI confirmed it is analyzing a recovered glove that appears to match those worn by a suspect seen in surveillance footage.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

An 84-year-old woman and the mother of 'Today' show co-host Savannah Guthrie, who went missing from her home in Tucson, Arizona on January 1, 2026.

Savannah Guthrie

The co-host of the 'Today' show and daughter of the missing Nancy Guthrie.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff, who has been leading the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Othram

A leading forensic genetic genealogy company that has criticized the decision to send evidence to a private lab rather than the FBI's Quantico facility.

DNA Labs International

The private lab in Florida that Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos sent key evidence to, rather than the FBI's Quantico facility.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must use the most advanced techniques and collaborate closely to ensure we leave no stone unturned in finding Nancy Guthrie.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (newsy-today.com)

“Forensic genealogy is a powerful tool, but it requires clear protocols and coordination between agencies to be used effectively.”

— Spokesperson, Othram (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

Authorities have emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that Guthrie was 'not in excellent physical health' and requires medication. The increased reward of $100,000 for information leading to Guthrie's safe return demonstrates the commitment to leveraging public assistance.

The takeaway

The Nancy Guthrie case is likely to prompt a reevaluation of best practices in missing persons investigations, including standardized forensic protocols, enhanced inter-agency communication, proactive use of forensic genealogy, and public awareness campaigns. As technology advances and public expectations evolve, these cases will continue to shape the future of how law enforcement responds to and investigates missing persons.