Legendary Houston Forensic Artist Unveils Sketch of Masked Suspect in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance
Tucson, AZ – February 13, 2026
In a striking development in the high-profile disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, retired Houston forensic artist Lois Gibson has released an unofficial sketch depicting the masked figure captured on doorbell footage from Guthrie’s Tucson home. The drawing, based on visible facial features like eyes, lips, and a mustache peeking from beneath a ski mask, aims to aid the ongoing investigation despite not being commissioned by law enforcement.[1][2][3]
Doorbell Video Captures Suspicious Activity
Nancy Guthrie, an elderly woman from Tucson, vanished from her home 12 days ago, prompting a massive search effort involving hundreds of investigators treating the case as a likely kidnapping. Key evidence stems from doorbell camera footage showing an armed individual in a ski mask approaching Guthrie’s front door on the morning of her disappearance. The figure appears to tamper with the camera, raising alarms of a deliberate act.[1][3]
Investigators have since erected a white tent outside the residence for further examination. A significant breakthrough came when authorities discovered gloves about a mile away, resembling those worn by the masked person in the video. These items are currently undergoing DNA testing, offering potential leads in the case.[1][2]
Lois Gibson: A Forensic Legend Steps In
Lois Gibson, widely hailed as one of the world’s top forensic artists, drew the sketch independently, driven by a personal compulsion to assist. With a 40-year career at the Houston Police Department (HPD), where she retired five years ago, Gibson has helped identify hundreds of suspects through witness descriptions and surveillance imagery. Her work has earned her international acclaim, often described as legendary in the field.[1][2][3]
“I couldn’t stop myself, I just couldn’t stop myself, I wanted to help, I felt the pain,” Gibson told reporters, explaining her motivation. She emphasized basing the portrait on the limited details visible in the FBI-released images: the suspect’s eyes, lips, and mustache. “I guessed at the parts of face covered with ski mask on this Nancy Guthrie kidnapping suspect,” she noted in a social media post sharing the drawing.[1][3]
Unofficial But Hopeful Contribution
Authorities have clarified that Gibson’s sketch is not an official suspect image and was not requested by any agency. Nonetheless, it reflects her vast experience and could spark public recognition. The case has captured national attention, with search teams canvassing neighborhoods, reviewing additional surveillance, and pursuing leads beyond Tucson.[3]
Gibson’s involvement underscores the emotional toll of such cases. “I’ve been in the room with people, their babies have been kidnapped and it takes you by the throat,” she shared, highlighting her empathy for victims’ families.[1]
Investigation Expands Amid Public Appeals
The FBI and local law enforcement continue to urge the public for tips. Hundreds of personnel are involved, expanding efforts regionally. The gloves’ DNA analysis could provide a breakthrough, while the sketch might jog memories of similar individuals.[1][2][3]
Earlier FBI releases of the doorbell images intensified focus on the masked intruder. Descriptions portray the person as armed, further supporting abduction theories. Neighborhood canvasses and footage reviews have yielded additional leads, though Guthrie remains missing.[3]
Public and Expert Hopes for Resolution
Reactions to Gibson’s sketch have been mixed but optimistic. News segments, including a KHOU 11 report, featured interviews emphasizing her credentials and voluntary effort. “It’ll be interesting to see if this goes anywhere from here,” noted anchors, echoing widespread anticipation.[2]
Forensic artistry like Gibson’s has proven pivotal in past cases, turning vague descriptions into actionable identifications. Though unofficial, her contribution aligns with public desires to see Guthrie safely returned and the perpetrator apprehended.[1]
Call for Information
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the FBI tip line or local Tucson authorities. The sketch’s release amplifies hopes that collective vigilance will crack the case. As Gibson put it, her pencil to paper is a bid to push forward a story gripping the nation.[1][3]
This evolving investigation highlights the blend of technology, expertise, and community involvement in modern missing persons probes. Updates are expected as DNA results emerge and tips pour in.