Key facts
- Sheriff Nanos defended the pace of the Nancy Guthrie investigation, citing reliance on lab work and scientific protocols.
- DNA and digital evidence analysis are ongoing, with samples sent to both private and FBI labs.
- Federal sources indicate new technological tools are being considered for the probe.
- No suspects have been publicly identified, and Guthrie's whereabouts remain unknown.
- A reward of over $1.2 million is offered for information leading to a resolution.
Sheriff Nanos, whose office is investigating the suspected abduction of Nancy Guthrie, defended the pace of the inquiry, which has now entered its fourth month. In an interview with KOLD-TV, Nanos attributed delays to the reliance on laboratory work, including DNA and digital testing, as well as scientific protocols and the judicial process. He emphasized that such sensitive cases require meticulous adherence to rules to ensure accuracy and avoid arresting the wrong person. The investigation has involved sending hair samples from Guthrie's home to a private genetics lab in Florida and subsequently to the FBI's Quantico lab for advanced testing. Reports also mentioned difficulties with mixed DNA samples and ongoing digital forensic analysis. While Nanos stated last month that detectives were making progress, no suspects have been publicly identified, and Guthrie's whereabouts remain unknown. A spokesperson for Nanos' office confirmed to Fox News Digital that the interview was conducted several weeks prior and that the investigation is active, with forensic analysis of DNA and video evidence continuing. Meanwhile, federal sources familiar with the probe indicated that the FBI is discussing the deployment of new technological tools, potentially focusing on digital analysis such as video forensics, signals analysis, or blockchain technology, according to Morgan Wright, CEO of the National Center for Open and Unsolved Cases. The investigative genetic genealogy process is also ongoing. Nancy Guthrie is the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' co-host Savannah Guthrie. A combined reward of over $1.2 million is offered for information that leads to cracking the case.