The FBI has released the first official physical description of the man believed to have kidnapped Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of US news anchor Savannah Guthrie. The case, which has attracted widespread attention across the United States and internationally, centers on Guthrie’s disappearance from her Tucson, Arizona home in the middle of the night two weeks ago. Authorities believe she was taken against her will.
According to federal investigators, surveillance footage captured by a doorbell camera outside her residence has played a central role in developing the suspect profile. After conducting forensic analysis on the video, the FBI stated that the individual seen in the footage is a male standing between 5ft 9in and 5ft 10in (175-177cm) tall, with an average build. This marks the first time the man captured in the video has been officially identified as a suspect in the case.
In its latest statement, the FBI emphasized that identifying details were established through forensic examination. Officials drew attention to a backpack worn by the suspect in the footage, identifying it as a 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack. The bag was highlighted as a potentially significant piece of evidence as investigators continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding Guthrie’s disappearance.
Additional developments have emerged during the ongoing search. The BBC’s US broadcast partner CBS reported on Thursday that a pair of black gloves was discovered as part of the investigative efforts. Authorities have not publicly detailed how the gloves may relate to the suspect or the case.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on the evening of 31 January when family members dropped her off at her home. The following day, members of her church noticed her absence and alerted her family, prompting concern and ultimately leading to the investigation. Officials have warned that her health may be at serious risk without access to necessary medication. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said she was “not in good physical health” but had no reported cognitive issues.
The case has generated a substantial public response. Since 1 February, the FBI has received more than 13,000 tips related to the disappearance, including 4,000 within the first 24 hours after the release of the doorbell camera footage. In an effort to encourage further information, authorities doubled the reward for details leading to her recovery from $50,000 (£36,700) to $100,000.
Earlier in the week, a man was detained in connection with the disappearance. His home in Rio Rico, located south of Tucson, was searched before he was released. Speaking to reporters, the man stated that he did not know who Nancy Guthrie was.
Savannah Guthrie and her two siblings have made multiple public appeals on social media, directing messages toward those who may have information about their mother’s whereabouts. The family has expressed belief that she is still alive and indicated they would be willing to pay for her safe return.
FBI Reveals Key Details About Suspect in Nancy Guthrie Abduction Case
As the investigation continues, federal and local authorities remain focused on analyzing evidence, following up on thousands of tips, and encouraging the public to come forward with any relevant information. With a detailed suspect description now released and the reward increased, officials are intensifying efforts to locate Nancy Guthrie and determine the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
