Federal authorities on Thursday released the first physical description of a male suspect wanted in connection with the Arizona disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie. Investigators say the suspect was captured on a front porch camera at Nancy Guthrie’s home the morning she is believed to have been abducted.
According to a statement from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the suspect is described as having an average build and standing approximately 5-foot-9 to 5-foot-10. Officials emphasized that the description is based on a detailed forensic review of doorbell camera footage taken outside Guthrie’s residence near Tucson, Arizona.
The footage, recorded by a Nest doorbell camera, shows a man wearing a black 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. The FBI released images of a similar backpack model to assist the public in identifying the item and potentially the individual seen carrying it. Authorities said the backpack may be a key identifying detail in the ongoing investigation.
Investigators noted that the newly released information stems from forensic analysis of the available video evidence. This marks the first time officials have publicly referred to the individual seen in the security footage as a suspect in the case, signaling what may be a significant development in the investigation.
In addition to releasing the suspect description, the FBI announced it has increased the reward for information. The reward has been raised from $50,000 to $100,000 for information leading to the location of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance.
Authorities say public response has been substantial. The FBI confirmed it has received more than 13,000 tips related to the case so far. Previously, officials reported receiving over 4,000 tips within just 24 hours of releasing the initial Nest camera images, underscoring the intense public interest and concern surrounding the disappearance.
Nancy Guthrie was reported missing from her home outside Tucson under circumstances authorities have described as suspicious. While investigators have not disclosed full details about the timeline of events, they have indicated that the morning surveillance footage is considered a critical piece of evidence.
Law enforcement agencies continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward. Officials stress that even small details could prove crucial in locating Nancy Guthrie or identifying those responsible.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, with federal, state, and local agencies working together to pursue leads. The increased reward and release of the suspect’s physical description represent the latest efforts to generate new information and bring resolution to the case.
