Investigators working on the Nancy Guthrie disappearance have uncovered DNA at her property that does not belong to her or anyone close to her, law enforcement officials confirmed on February 13, 2026.
The discovery has added a fresh lead in a case that has puzzled authorities and the community.
According to the sheriff’s department, officials are actively trying to determine the source of this unknown DNA, though they have not disclosed the exact location where it was found.
Gloves Found in the Vicinity, Not on the Property
Contrary to earlier reports, officials clarified that no gloves were found inside Guthrie’s home or directly on the property.
Several gloves have been located, with the closest approximately two miles away from the residence. The sheriff emphasized that these findings are not tied directly to the home itself but are considered potential leads in the investigation.
Forensic analysis of these items is now underway, and they will be sent to the same out-of-state laboratory that has been assisting since the start of the investigation, ensuring continuity and consistency in testing.
Collaboration with FBI on Evidence Analysis
Local FBI leadership has been involved in the decision-making process regarding the handling and testing of the DNA evidence.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told ABC News that investigators plan to use the DNA they already have from Guthrie’s family and household contacts to eliminate potential matches, narrowing down who the unknown DNA might belong to.
“We’re hopeful that with these new leads, investigators are making progress toward finding Nancy,” Nanos added, highlighting cautious optimism as the forensic process moves forward.
The Ongoing Search Effort
This development comes as part of a broader effort to locate Guthrie, who remains missing. Authorities have stressed the importance of following proper investigative protocols and ensuring that every piece of evidence is thoroughly analyzed before conclusions are drawn.
While the DNA itself does not immediately identify a suspect or location, it provides a critical new angle for investigators who have been combing through multiple leads in the weeks since Guthrie was reported missing.
What’s Next?
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Forensic testing of the DNA and gloves will continue at the out-of-state lab.
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Authorities will attempt to eliminate known contacts to focus on unknown individuals connected to the DNA.
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Investigators may expand searches in areas surrounding the property, particularly near where the gloves were found.
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Updates from Pima County Sheriff’s Department and FBI may follow as lab results come back.
Summary
DNA unrelated to Nancy Guthrie or her immediate circle has been recovered near her property, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation.
Several gloves found in the area—though not on the property itself—are being analyzed in an out-of-state lab, in collaboration with FBI officials.
Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed that investigators will use known family and household DNA to help eliminate potential matches, signaling a hopeful step toward solving the case.
