FBI Releases Detailed Suspect Description and Boosts Reward to $100K in Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping Case
TUCSON, Ariz. – Federal investigators have unveiled a precise description of the suspect believed to be involved in the kidnapping of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC’s “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie, as the search enters its 12th day.[1][2]
The FBI’s Phoenix field office released the details Thursday following a forensic analysis of doorbell camera footage from Guthrie’s Catalina Foothills home, where she vanished on February 1. The suspect is described as a male, approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall, with an average build. He was wearing a distinctive black 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack, images of which were shared publicly to aid identification.[2][4]
Doorbell Footage and Forensic Breakthrough
The breakthrough came from the FBI’s Operational Technology Division, which enhanced surveillance video capturing the masked individual at Guthrie’s front door around the time of her disappearance. “New identifying details about the suspect in the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie have been confirmed,” the FBI stated on X, emphasizing the backpack as a key identifier.[2]
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on the night of January 31 after being dropped off at her home near East Skyline Drive and North Campbell Avenue. She was reported missing the next day when she failed to attend church. Authorities believe she was taken against her will from her residence and is without essential medication. Blood drops were discovered on her porch, heightening concerns for her safety.[4]
Reward Doubles Amid Surge of Tips
In a bid to generate more leads, the FBI has doubled its reward to $100,000 for information leading to Guthrie’s location and/or the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Previously set at $50,000, the increased incentive reflects the intensity of the investigation.[1][2][4]
Over the past 12 days, investigators have fielded more than 13,000 public tips, each vetted for credibility by a 24-hour command post staffed by dozens of agents. “Every tip is reviewed for credibility, relevance, and information that can be acted upon,” the FBI noted. Tips can be submitted via 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov.[2]
Recent Developments in the Search
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department Forensic Team was observed scouring brush off a road near Guthrie’s home early Thursday. On Wednesday, a set of gloves was found nearby, though it’s unclear if they link to the suspect seen in the footage.[1]
The FBI also conducted an extensive search along multiple roadways in the Catalina Foothills area on Wednesday. Meanwhile, TMZ reported receiving a third letter – this time an email – from someone claiming knowledge of the kidnapper’s identity. The sender demanded one Bitcoin be sent to a verified address, expressing frustration at not being taken seriously after failed attempts to contact Guthrie’s family.[1][4]
“An hour and a half ago, we got a bizarre letter, an email from somebody who says they know who the kidnapper is… time is more than relevant.” – TMZ report cited on Fox News[4]
Expert Analysis and Theories
Former FBI supervisory special agent Dennis Franks discussed the case on CBS News, noting the possibility of an accomplice and the unusual routing of ransom demands through media outlets rather than directly to the family. “I believe there’s a distinction between the person who took Mrs. Guthrie and the person issuing the demands,” Franks said, suggesting tactics to evade hostage negotiators.[3]
Human behavior expert Susan Constantine analyzed the footage for the New York Post, estimating the suspect’s height at 5-foot-10 to 5-foot-11 based on brick measurements in the video. She described him as physically fit with a distinctive gait, broader hips, and larger thighs. Constantine questioned robbery motives, pointing out the backpack appeared pre-packed.[5]
Family and Community Impact
The disappearance has drawn national attention due to Nancy Guthrie’s connection to Savannah Guthrie, a prominent morning show anchor. The family has urged the public to come forward with any information. Local authorities and federal agents continue round-the-clock efforts in the rugged Tucson foothills.[1][4]
Pima County Sheriff’s Department and FBI teams remain committed to following every lead. As the search persists, the release of the suspect’s description is hoped to spark the breakthrough needed to bring Nancy Guthrie home safely.