Months after Nancy Guthrie went missing from her Tucson home, investigators are taking a fresh look at key evidence and hoping new DNA technology could finally bring answers in the case.
Whole genome sequencing, a technology that can extract DNA from even a strand of hair without the root, may lead to a breakthrough in the case. This technology helped solve the Gilgo Beach serial killer case, and investigators are now hoping it can do the same for Nancy Guthrie.
Genetic genealogist Cece Moore explained that the FBI trusts the lab that worked on the Gilgo case, Astrea, and that they have been successful with rootless hair analysis. Moore also added that genetic genealogy came in 2018, and the ability to extract profiles from rootless hair is even newer.
Former CIA officer and FBI Special Agent Tracy Walder said that DNA evidence is very important in this case because there is not much other forensic evidence available. Walder pointed out that there is very little video or phone-related evidence, making DNA crucial in ruling people in or out.
Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' co-host Savannah Guthrie, disappeared from her Tucson home on February 1. Authorities believe she may have been targeted before she was taken from her home. Some of the DNA evidence has already been tested but has not helped identify a suspect.
