FBI releases description of suspect in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping
The FBI has released new details in the ongoing investigation into the kidnapping of nancy guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC’s Today show co-anchor savannah guthrie. This development comes as authorities continue an intensive search effort in the Tucson, Arizona area, where Nancy was reported missing on February 1, 2026, after last being seen at her home on January 31.
According to a statement from the FBI Phoenix Field Office (shared via their official X account and echoed across major news outlets), forensic analysis of doorbell camera footage from Nancy Guthrie’s residence has confirmed key identifying features of a suspect. The individual captured on video—previously described as a masked person approaching the home—is now officially classified as a suspect in the kidnapping.
The suspect is described as:
- A male
- Approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall (about 175-178 cm)
- Of average build
In the footage, the suspect was wearing a black, 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack (some reports note slight variations like 24-liter, but the FBI specifies 25-liter). The FBI has released reference photos of this exact backpack model to aid public recognition, hoping it jogs memories or leads to tips. The person in the video also appeared masked, gloved, and possibly armed (with what looked like a holstered weapon in some analyses of the clips).
This update follows the FBI’s earlier release of black-and-white images and video excerpts from the doorbell camera, which showed the figure tampering with or approaching the door in the early morning hours around the time Nancy disappeared. Authorities have stressed that Nancy was taken against her will, and concerns remain high due to her age, health needs (including required medications), and the fact that abductions of elderly individuals are statistically rare and often complex.
In tandem with the new suspect details, the FBI announced an increase in the reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s location and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved—from $50,000 to $100,000. Officials noted that the public has already provided over 13,000 tips since early February, with a dedicated command post reviewing leads around the clock.
The investigation, led by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department with heavy FBI support, includes door-to-door canvassing in neighborhoods near Nancy’s home in the Catalina Foothills area. Investigators are urging residents to share any surveillance footage from January onward showing unusual vehicles, people, or activity. Additional evidence, such as discarded gloves found along nearby roads, continues to be analyzed.
Savannah Guthrie has remained vocal in appealing for help, sharing heartfelt family messages on social media, including a recent post emphasizing, “We will never give up on her. Thank you for your prayers and hope.” The case has drawn widespread attention due to Savannah’s prominence and the chilling nature of the home surveillance evidence.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov. Tips can also go directly to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Authorities continue to emphasize that every credible lead is pursued urgently.
This remains an active investigation, and more updates may follow as forensic work and public assistance yield results. The hope is that these specific details—the height, build, and distinctive backpack—will prompt that one key tip needed to bring Nancy home safely.
