DNA Evidence Sought in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance

Genetic genealogist says saliva from potential suspect could still be found at the crime scene.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 3:37pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single item of physical evidence related to the Nancy Guthrie disappearance case, such as a flashlight or a piece of clothing, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.Forensic investigators scour the crime scene for DNA evidence that could unlock the mystery of Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.Tucson Today

The investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, continues as law enforcement searches for DNA evidence. A genetic genealogist believes there is a possibility that the suspect's saliva could still be found at Nancy's home, where surveillance footage shows a man with a flashlight near the front door on the morning she went missing.

Why it matters

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has garnered national attention, and the potential discovery of DNA evidence could be a crucial break in the case. Identifying the individual seen on the surveillance footage could lead to answers about what happened to Nancy and help bring closure to her family.

The details

Surveillance footage released by law enforcement shows a man with a flashlight near the front door of Nancy Guthrie's home on the morning of her disappearance on January 31. Genetic genealogist CeCe Moore believes the man's saliva could still be found at the scene, as DNA can be hardy and persist in a home environment. The sheriff's department has previously confirmed that blood found on the porch belonged to Nancy, but no CODIS matches have been made. Investigators now say they have DNA they believe is 'still workable' in the case.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home in Tucson, Arizona on January 31.
  • Surveillance footage was released by law enforcement in February.
  • In February, the FBI and Pima County Sheriff's Department released the surveillance photos and videos.
  • Last month, the sheriff said investigators have DNA they believe is 'still workable' in the case.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, who has been missing for over two months.

CeCe Moore

A genetic genealogist who believes the suspect's saliva could still be found at Nancy Guthrie's home.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff who said there were clues at the crime scene indicating that Nancy Guthrie 'did not leave on her own.'

Jennifer Coffindaffer

A retired FBI agent who previously told Newsweek that the DNA found at Nancy's home could contain a mixture from several people, which would make it difficult to divide up.

Savannah Guthrie

The Today co-anchor and daughter of Nancy Guthrie, who has announced a $1 million reward for information leading to her mother's recovery.

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What they’re saying

“DNA is hardy, so it's certainly possible there's still some DNA there. In particular, I really do think that saliva is the most likely, because of what appeared to be that flashlight in his mouth.”

— CeCe Moore, Genetic Genealogist

“With that kind of DNA complexity, it is my understanding and never in my knowledge have they been able to divide up something like that.”

— Jennifer Coffindaffer, Retired FBI Agent

“I just can't share everything I know, but I will tell you this: We have some DNA that we think is still workable, and we have to work that. And we know the science, and we know we have some labs around this country who are really working diligently to get there with this.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff

What’s next

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the recovery of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance. Additionally, 88-CRIME is offering a $102,500 reward for the arrest of the person or persons involved.

The takeaway

The potential discovery of DNA evidence at Nancy Guthrie's home could be a critical breakthrough in the investigation into her disappearance. Identifying the individual seen on the surveillance footage near her home could provide crucial clues about what happened and help bring closure to her family.