FBI releases first suspect description in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping; reward doubled to $100k

Federal investigators have issued the first detailed description of the man believed to have abducted 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie from her Tucson-area home, while also raising the reward to $100,000 as a surge of new tips flows in.

New suspect details from doorbell video

After forensic analysis of footage captured by a doorbell camera outside Guthrie’s residence, investigators say the suspect is a male, approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall, with an average build. The video shows the man carrying a 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack, a detail authorities highlighted as a potential identifier.

The suspect identification marks a significant shift in the case, as it is the first time the individual seen in the footage has been formally labeled a suspect. Analysts extracted the measurements and gear details from the video to refine search parameters and public guidance.

Search turns up potential evidence

During ongoing searches tied to the investigation, a pair of black gloves was recovered and is being examined. Authorities have not said whether the gloves are directly linked to the suspect, but the item has been included in the growing catalog of potential evidence as teams canvass neighborhoods, analyze surveillance, and retrace likely routes.

Tips surge as reward climbs to $100k

Since February 1 (ET), investigators have received more than 13,000 tips, including roughly 4,000 within 24 hours of releasing the doorbell video—an indicator that the suspect’s appearance and the distinctive backpack resonated with the public. To further accelerate leads, the reward for information that helps locate Guthrie or identify and apprehend her abductor has been doubled to $100,000, a six-figure milestone often referenced as 100k.

Authorities continue to encourage residents across Arizona and neighboring regions to review home and business security footage for late-night activity around January 31 and the days immediately following. Any sightings of the specific 25-liter hiking pack, recent purchases of such gear, or individuals matching the described height and build are of particular interest.

Detention in Rio Rico yields no arrest

Earlier this week, a man was detained during a traffic stop in connection with the case, and a home in Rio Rico—south of Tucson—was searched. He was later released, and no arrest was announced. The inquiry around that lead has not produced a named suspect, underscoring the case’s fluid nature as investigators sort through an influx of information and potential sightings.

Family pleas and health concerns

Guthrie was last seen on Saturday, January 31 (ET), after relatives dropped her at home. Members of her church alerted family the next day when she did not appear at Sunday services. Loved ones have issued multiple public appeals urging anyone involved to return her safely, expressing belief she is alive and signaling willingness to facilitate her return.

Officials caution that Guthrie may be in deteriorating health without her medication. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said she is not in good physical health but has no reported cognitive issues. The combination of age and medical needs has added urgency to the multi-agency search.

What investigators are asking the public to watch for

Authorities are focusing on a few key details: the suspect’s height and build, the 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack, the possibility of black gloves, and any vehicles or individuals lingering near residential areas late at night around the time of the abduction. Anyone who notices newly acquired camping or hiking gear that matches the description—especially if paired with sudden changes in routine—should contact law enforcement. Even small observations can help connect dots in a fast-moving case.

As the search widens, investigators emphasize that public vigilance is crucial. The expanded reward and clearer suspect profile are designed to encourage swift, specific tips that can be corroborated through surveillance, purchase records, and witness accounts. The priority remains finding Nancy Guthrie and bringing her home safely.