Search Intensifies for Missing 'Today' Show Host's Mother

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The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, has entered a critical phase as investigators use advanced forensic techniques and expand the investigation to Mexico in an effort to find her. While no suspects have been publicly identified, authorities are pursuing multiple leads, including analyzing DNA evidence and employing genetic genealogy, as well as leveraging technology like Bluetooth sensors to aid in the search.

Why it matters

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, a high-profile figure as the mother of a national news anchor, has garnered significant public attention and resources from law enforcement. The case highlights the challenges of investigating a kidnapping with limited evidence, as well as the evolving role of technology and genetic analysis in modern criminal investigations.

The details

Investigators have questioned two individuals since Guthrie's abduction, but both were released without charge. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has received over 20,000 tips from the public, and the investigation now extends to Mexico as a precautionary measure. DNA analysis of evidence recovered from the scene has not yielded any matches in the national CODIS database, prompting the use of genetic genealogy to try to identify the suspect. Authorities are also utilizing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi sensors to detect signals from Guthrie's pacemaker, and an anonymous donor has contributed $100,000 to a local tip line.

• Nancy Guthrie was last seen on February 1st at her home in Tucson, Arizona.
• The investigation has been ongoing for three weeks since Guthrie's disappearance.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the release of DNA data from commercial genetic databases to aid the investigation.