What Have Volunteers Found in Nancy Guthrie Case? Unofficial Search Near Tucson Home Raises New Questions

TUCSON, Arizona – February 24, 2026: The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie remains unsolved more than three weeks after she was last seen at her home on January 31. While investigators continue their work, local volunteers have started their own ground search near her neighborhood.

The 84-year-old mother of Today Show anchor Savannah Guthrie has not been found. The case is being handled by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, along with federal partners. Officials say the investigation is active.

Volunteers Launch Desert Search Near Her Home

In recent days, small groups of local residents have gathered near Nancy Guthrie’s home. They are searching desert areas, roadside bushes, and drainage spots close to the property.

Volunteers were seen using long sticks to check inside thick bushes and storm drains. They say they want to support law enforcement and help bring answers to the family.

One volunteer found a damaged black backpack inside a storm drain near West Orange Grove Road and close to State Route 77. The location is about two miles from Nancy’s home. According to a report by the New York Post, the backpack was identified as a Swiss Gear bag.

The area is sometimes used as shelter by homeless individuals. Two people were reportedly present nearby when the bag was found.

Authorities responded within minutes after being informed. However, officials later clarified that the backpack does not match the one seen in earlier doorbell camera footage released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

It remains unclear whether the item is linked to the case.

DNA Testing Faces Delays

Sheriff Chris Nanos has addressed ongoing delays in DNA testing. According to reports by NBC News, unidentified DNA was found inside Nancy Guthrie’s home.

The DNA does not match Nancy, her family members, or known workers who had access to the house. However, officials say the samples are mixed and incomplete. This makes analysis more difficult.

The samples are currently being processed at a private laboratory in Florida. Sheriff Nanos said advanced technology may help resolve the results. But he admitted the process could take weeks, months, or even up to a year.

He also told the BBC News that he believes Nancy may still be in the local area. However, he confirmed there is no direct evidence to support that belief at this time.

Investigation Continues

Authorities have stressed that the official investigation remains the priority. Volunteers have been advised to report any findings directly to law enforcement.

Despite growing public attention and online discussion, no confirmed breakthrough has been announced. The case continues to raise concern across Arizona and beyond.

For now, both officials and community members are searching for answers.