Inconclusive Hair Sample in Nancy Guthrie Missing Person Case Raises Questions

A hair sample found at the Tucson, Arizona home of Nancy Guthrie, mother of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has returned inconclusive results, police confirmed on Thursday. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that the forensic testing yielded no definitive suspects, as the findings were verified in early June but only publicly disclosed now.

According to the sheriff, while no conclusions can be drawn from the hair sample, additional evidence such as blood and other DNA recovered from the scene is still under analysis, with no results reported thus far. “I know that there was blood at the scene and so that was also part of the processing of the scene,” Nanos said.

In earlier reports, CBS News highlighted that a DNA sample, sent by sheriff's detectives to a private laboratory in Florida, has been further processed at the FBI's crime lab in Quantico, Virginia. However, specifics regarding this sample remain undisclosed.

Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen on January 31 after visiting her daughter Annie. Security footage revealed a suspect at her front door on February 1, prompting investigators to believe she was likely abducted. Subsequent communications indicated at least two ransom notes were sent after her disappearance.

Despite the absence of new surveillance footage, Sheriff Nanos remains steadfast in the belief that the suspects could be from the Tucson area. “Do I have evidence of it? No,” he stated, but noted a trend where most criminals are local.

In an emotional appeal on social media, Savannah Guthrie implored her mother's abductors to assist in finding her, expressing hope for a resolution. Meanwhile, Sheriff Nanos addressed recent criticisms regarding the FBI's involvement, reassuring that both agencies are collaborating effectively for resolution. He emphasized, “The bottom line here is this: We know more than you will ever know, because that's how investigations work.” The investigation into Nancy Guthrie's case is ongoing, with law enforcement continuing to seek answers.