Glove Yields No DNA Matches in Nancy Guthrie Investigation
Authorities in Pima County, Arizona, have reported that a glove recovered during the investigation into the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie has produced no DNA matches. The glove was found approximately two miles from Guthrie's residence and appeared to correspond with one worn by a suspect captured in doorbell-camera footage on the night of her disappearance.
DNA samples from the glove were submitted for testing on Thursday but did not match any profiles in CODIS, the FBI's database of DNA from known offenders.
Background on Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie, aged 84 and mother of news anchor Savannah Guthrie, has been missing since 1 February. Investigators believe she was abducted from her home against her will. Her family has issued multiple public appeals for her safe return.
The FBI disclosed on Sunday that the glove was recovered from a field near the roadside about two miles (3 km) from Guthrie's home in Tucson, Arizona. In total, approximately 16 gloves were collected from various locations near the residence, though most were discarded by individuals involved in the search efforts.
Doorbell Camera Footage and Suspect Description
Last week, authorities released video footage from a doorbell camera at Guthrie's front door showing a masked man wearing gloves and carrying a backpack. The suspect is seen approaching the camera, attempting to cover it with his gloved hand, and then grabbing brush from the front yard to obstruct the camera's view.
Following forensic analysis of the footage, the FBI estimated the suspect's height to be between 5ft 9in and 5ft 10in (175-177cm) with an average build.
Ongoing Investigation and Additional Evidence
More than two weeks after Guthrie was reported missing, no arrests have been made, according to confirmation from the sheriff's department on Tuesday. Additional DNA evidence collected from the home is currently undergoing analysis.
Authorities are collaborating with Walmart to identify the purchaser of the backpack worn by the suspect in the video.
Police have clarified that the Guthrie family members, including Nancy Guthrie's children and their spouses, are not considered suspects in the abduction.
Family Appeals and Public Statements
Guthrie's three children have posted several videos pleading for their mother's safe return since her disappearance, expressing willingness to pay the abductors.
"It is never too late to do the right thing," Savannah Guthrie stated in a video addressed to a potential kidnapper. "We are here and...we believe in the essential goodness of every human being."
Timeline and Search Efforts
Guthrie was last seen on the evening of 31 January when a family member dropped her off at her home after a gathering at her daughter Annie Guthrie's house. Members of her church noticed her absence the following day and alerted her family.
A large-scale search operation has been conducted by the Pima County Sheriff's Department and the FBI, involving thorough searches of Guthrie's home and surrounding areas.
Health and Forensic Details
Officials have indicated that Guthrie requires regular medication and is not in good physical health, though she reportedly has no cognitive impairments.
Blood discovered on the floor of Guthrie's porch has been confirmed to be hers.
Reward and Additional Information
The FBI has increased the reward for information leading to Guthrie's whereabouts from $50,000 (£36,700) to $100,000.
