Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping: What Is Luminol and Why FBI Took Evidence From Annie Guthrie’s Home

More than a week has passed since Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC anchor Savannah Guthrie, mysteriously disappeared from her home in Tucson, Arizona. Law enforcement agencies, including the Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) and the FBI, are intensifying efforts to trace her whereabouts as concerns grow over her safety.

Nancy was last seen on the night of January 31, 2026, and investigators say the case remains active and highly sensitive.

Second Search at Annie Guthrie’s House

As part of the investigation, authorities returned to the home of Nancy’s elder daughter, Annie Guthrie, and her husband Tommaso Cioni, on Monday, February 9, 2026. This marked at least the second search of the property since Nancy went missing.

Officials were seen entering and leaving the house with bags of collected evidence, which they reportedly took with the consent of the homeowners. Annie’s residence is located just four miles from Nancy Guthrie’s home and was the last place Nancy visited before she vanished.

Nancy Guthrie’s Final Known Movements

According to confirmed details, Nancy traveled to Annie’s house via Uber on the evening of January 31. She spent about three hours there during a family gathering. Later that night, Tommaso Cioni reportedly drove Nancy back to her home, dropping her off at approximately 9:28 p.m.

She was reported missing several hours later after failing to respond to calls and messages.

What Is Luminol and Why Is It Used?

Public curiosity surged after reports suggested investigators may have used luminol during searches at Annie Guthrie’s home.

Former FBI Special Agent Bryanna Fox explained in an interview with Parade Magazine that luminol is a forensic chemical used to detect biological traces that cannot be seen with the naked eye.

Luminol reacts with substances such as blood, saliva, or urine, producing a blue glow in complete darkness. Investigators use it to identify potential evidence even if a surface appears clean.

Fox stressed that the use of luminol does not automatically mean a crime occurred at that location. She said investigators often document every detail because even minor traces can become important later.

Why Are Annie Guthrie and Tommaso Cioni Under Scrutiny?

Annie Guthrie and her husband have faced increased attention because Nancy was last seen with them. Earlier media claims suggested Tommaso Cioni was being treated as a suspect, but law enforcement has not confirmed this.

Officials have stated that no individual has been publicly named as a suspect, and all searches are part of standard investigative procedures.

Other Key Developments in the Case

Investigators have also searched a septic tank behind Nancy Guthrie’s home. Drone footage showed detectives opening a manhole cover and lowering equipment inside. Authorities have not disclosed the results of that search.

Earlier in the investigation, officers seized Nancy’s vehicle and removed a security camera from her home for forensic analysis. Annie Guthrie’s car was also taken as part of evidence collection.

Nancy Guthrie’s Health Raises Urgent Concerns

Nancy has been classified as a vulnerable adult due to her fragile health. She reportedly suffers from heart-related conditions that require regular medication and monitoring.

More than 100 officials are now involved in the search, covering multiple locations across Tucson and surrounding areas.

Savannah Guthrie’s Emotional Appeal

On February 9, 2026, Savannah Guthrie shared an emotional video on Instagram, urging the public to help find her mother. She said the family believes Nancy is still alive and asked anyone with information to come forward immediately.

Authorities continue to say they believe Nancy is “still with us.”

Reward Announced

The FBI has announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s safe return. Investigators say every tip matters as the search enters a critical phase.