Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping: Investigators Collaborate with Walmart on Backpack Clue
Investigators working on the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie, are consulting with Walmart management to develop leads in the case. This collaboration follows the identification of a backpack worn by the suspect as being sold exclusively at Walmart stores, according to the Pima County, Arizona, sheriff.
Exclusive Backpack Links Suspect to Retailer
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated in a text message to The Associated Press on Monday that the 25-liter "Ozark Trail Hiker Pack" backpack was the only clothing item that has been "definitively identified" in the investigation. "This backpack is exclusive to Walmart and we are working with Walmart management to develop further leads," Nanos said.
The development comes as law enforcement gathers more potential evidence and as the search for Guthrie heads into its third week. Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her Arizona home on Jan. 31 and was reported missing the following day. Authorities say her blood was found on the front porch, and purported ransom notes were sent to news outlets, though two deadlines for payment have passed without resolution.
Surveillance Footage and Suspect Description
The Federal Bureau of Investigation released surveillance videos showing a masked person wearing a handgun holster outside Guthrie's front door in Tucson the night she vanished. A porch camera recorded video of a person with the backpack, wearing a ski mask, long pants, a jacket, and gloves.
The FBI described the suspect in the footage as a man about 5 feet, 9 inches tall with a medium build. Authorities have not identified a suspect, but the Pima County Sheriff's Department noted in a statement that the suspect's clothing "may have been purchased from Walmart but is not exclusively available at Walmart," adding that "this remains a possibility only."
Health Concerns and Ongoing Evidence Collection
Authorities have expressed concern about Nancy Guthrie's health, as she needs vital daily medicine. According to sheriff's dispatcher audio on broadcastify.com, she is said to have a pacemaker and has dealt with high blood pressure and heart issues.
In a recent development, investigators announced on Sunday that a glove discovered near the Guthrie home has been sent for DNA testing. The FBI received preliminary results on Saturday and is awaiting official confirmation, which could provide crucial evidence in the case.
As the investigation continues, the collaboration with Walmart represents a significant step in tracing the suspect's movements and purchases, potentially leading to breakthroughs in this high-profile kidnapping case.
