As the search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie enters its fourth week, a newly discovered backpack briefly sparked fresh speculation - and renewed hope - in a case that has gripped both Arizona residents and national audiences.
But according to law enforcement, the backpack is not connected to her disappearance.
Here's what authorities have confirmed - and what remains unanswered.
Backpack Found Near Home Ruled Out by Investigators
Over the weekend, volunteers assisting in the search located a backpack not far from Guthrie's home in the Catalina Foothills area outside Tucson, Arizona.
Because previously released surveillance footage showed a masked individual outside Guthrie's front door wearing what appeared to be a backpack, the discovery immediately drew attention online. Some speculated it could be a breakthrough.
However, Kevin Adger, spokesperson for the Pima County Sheriff's Department, told local media that deputies collected and examined the item - and determined it was not a viable lead.
Authorities confirmed:
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The backpack was a different brand from the one seen in surveillance images.
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It appeared to have been outdoors far longer than three weeks.
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Identification belonging to a minor was found inside.
Investigators concluded the item was unrelated to the ongoing investigation.
What We Know About Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing on February 1 after spending the previous evening with family.
Authorities have stated that blood believed to belong to her was found on her porch, raising concerns that she may have been taken against her will. The case is being treated as a suspected abduction.
Earlier in the investigation, law enforcement released doorbell camera images showing a masked individual wearing gloves, long pants, a jacket, and a handgun holster outside her home on the night she disappeared. The FBI described the person as a man approximately 5-foot-9 to 5-foot-10 with an average build.
Officials have cautioned that the released images do not contain visible timestamps, and any claims that different photos were taken on separate days are speculative.
DNA Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
Detectives have collected multiple gloves found near the search area. Authorities previously said DNA recovered from gloves did not match any entries in CODIS, the FBI's national DNA database.
Investigators have also collected DNA from Guthrie's property that does not belong to her or those in close contact with her. Officials have indicated they are turning to investigative genetic genealogy in hopes of identifying potential suspects.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department emphasized that this remains an active criminal investigation and that speculation does not help the process.
Family members, including Savannah Guthrie and other relatives, have been cleared as possible suspects.
Addressing Online Speculation
In addition to the backpack discovery, online rumors have circulated regarding financial motives and alleged life insurance policies. Authorities have not confirmed that any such policy exists or that financial matters are part of the investigation.
Law enforcement continues to focus strictly on verifiable evidence.
A Family Holding On to Hope
Savannah Guthrie has publicly appealed for her mother's safe return, sharing an emotional message on social media.
"We still have hope and we still believe," she said. "It's never too late to do the right thing."
Community members have joined volunteer search efforts, though officials have asked that independent searches be coordinated to avoid disturbing potential evidence.
What Happens Next?
As the case moves into its fourth week, investigators continue reviewing surveillance footage, analyzing forensic evidence, and following up on tips.
Authorities urge anyone with credible information to contact:
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1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
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520-351-4900
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88-CRIME
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tips.fbi.gov
For now, the backpack discovery - once seen as a possible breakthrough - has been ruled out. But officials stress that the investigation remains active.
The search for Nancy Guthrie continues.
