Identify the Kidnapping Suspect: FBI Releases Description in Nancy Guthrie Case

Description of Nancy Guthrie kidnapping suspect released

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has released its most detailed description yet of the suspect believed responsible for the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, sharpening the focus of a fast-moving investigation and announcing a $100,000 reward for information that breaks the case.

FBI releases new details on suspect in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping

Suspect Description: What the FBI Says

According to investigators, the individual captured on doorbell surveillance video outside Guthrie’s Catalina Foothills home is believed to be:

• Male

• Approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall

• Average build

• Wearing dark clothing, including gloves

• Concealing his face with a mask

• Carrying a black 25-liter Ozark Trail “Hiker Pack” backpack

New video of “kidnapper” of Nancy Guthrie released by FBI of masked armed man:

Authorities say the suspect approached the home in the early morning hours of February 1 and appeared to tamper with or disable the doorbell camera before moving out of view. The enhanced footage, analyzed by FBI technical specialists, allowed investigators to identify the backpack model with greater confidence.

The specificity of the backpack detail marks a turning point in the investigation. Officials are urging anyone who owns, sold, discarded, or recently saw a similar Ozark Trail Hiker Pack in suspicious circumstances to contact law enforcement.

$100,000 Reward Announced

Authorities said that the alleged kidnapper was wearing the “Ozark Trail Hiker Pack” backpack. FBI Phoenix

The FBI’s Phoenix field office confirmed that the reward has been increased to $100,000 for information leading to Guthrie’s location or the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

Investigators say they have received thousands of tips since releasing surveillance images. The reward expansion is intended to generate more actionable leads tied directly to the suspect description and backpack.

Read more:

- Black Glove Found as Investigators Intensify Search in Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping Case

- Who Kidnapped Nancy Guthrie? FBI Releases New Footage of Armed Suspect at Her Home

Physical Evidence Recovered

The updated suspect profile comes as authorities continue to process physical evidence recovered during searches in the desert terrain surrounding Tucson, including gloves and other items believed to be relevant to the abduction timeline.

Law enforcement officials have not publicly disclosed whether DNA or fingerprints have been successfully extracted. However, sources close to the investigation describe forensic testing as ongoing and prioritized.

Earlier in the case, investigators confirmed that blood found inside Guthrie’s residence matched her identity, reinforcing the assessment that she was taken by force.

Expanding Search and Digital Review

Search teams continue canvassing the Catalina Foothills area and reviewing residential and traffic surveillance footage from the overnight window surrounding the disappearance.

Authorities are particularly interested in:

• Vehicles seen leaving the area before dawn

• Individuals matching the height and clothing description

• Anyone carrying or discarding a black hiking-style backpack

Family Appeal and Public Call for Tips

Guthrie, 84, is the mother of NBC’s Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, who has publicly appealed for information and emphasized her mother’s need for daily medication.

The FBI and the Pima County Sheriff's Office are asking anyone with credible information to contact the FBI tip line. Authorities stress that even seemingly minor details — particularly related to the suspect’s height, build, clothing, or backpack — could prove decisive.

As the investigation enters its third week, officials say identifying the masked man in the surveillance footage remains the central objective.