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In the ongoing investigation of Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has clarified that no new suspects are currently being pursued. This comes amidst the complexities of analyzing mixed DNA samples found at the 84-year-old’s residence in Arizona, which presents challenges for the laboratory handling the case.
During an interview with “NBC Nightly News” aired on Saturday, Sheriff Nanos expressed optimism about the progress of the investigation, stating, “In terms of leads and working and getting out there, I think that’s still growing, yeah.” His comments, however, appear to contrast with assertions from local businesses that have reportedly been shown a list of names and photos by the FBI.
Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Tucson home in the early hours of February 1st, with authorities treating her case as a possible abduction. Sheriff Nanos emphasized that no new individuals are currently under scrutiny, partially due to the challenges posed by the DNA evidence. The samples collected from Guthrie’s home are mixed, containing genetic material from more than one person, complicating their analysis and cross-referencing in national databases.
The uncertainty surrounding the utility of the DNA samples adds another layer of complexity to the investigation. Despite these hurdles, the authorities remain committed to uncovering the truth behind Guthrie’s mysterious disappearance.
It’s also unclear whether the DNA recovered inside Guthrie’s has been useful for the investigation. Nanos said the samples are mixed, meaning they contain DNA from more than one person, making it harder to run through national databases.
“Our lab tells us that there are challenges with it,” Nanos said of the Florida lab his agent is using. “The technology is moving so fast and in such a frenzy that they think some of this stuff will resolve itself just in a matter of weeks, months, or maybe a year.”
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos speaks to the media in Catalina, Ariz., Feb. 3, while answering questions about the search for Nancy Guthrie. (Jan Sonnenmair/Getty Images)
The sheriff noted that investigators were still working other avenues of the weeks-long probe into Guthrie’s abduction.
“I think we’re getting a little closer to identifying some of the other articles, not just that backpack. Like the shoes, the pants, the shirt or jacket,” he said.
Guthrie was last seen on the night of Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, after being dropped off at her home in the Catalina Foothills area near Tucson.
“Today” host Savannah Guthrie, right, with her mother, Nancy Guthrie. (Don Arnold/WireImage)
“It’s never fast enough for the Sheriff,” Nanos said of the criticism of his office weeks after Gutherie’s disappearance, with no arrests made. “I want it like you. Come on, guys, let’s go. Let’s go, let us find her. But the reality is, I also know that sometimes things take time.”
“We’re not quitting,” he added. “We’ll find her.”