The Pima County Sheriff's Department says newly discovered human remains found in the Tucson desert show no indication of being connected to the ongoing disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, mother of "Today" co-anchor Savannah Guthrie.
The department confirmed on Monday, August 17, that Search and Rescue deputies had responded to a report of human remains found in a desert area near West Ajo Way and South La Cholla Boulevard, roughly 15 miles from Guthrie's Catalina Foothills home. "PCSD Search & Rescue deputies are responding to reports of human remains found in a desert area near West Ajo Way and South La Cholla Boulevard. At this time, there is no indication they are connected to the Nancy Guthrie investigation," the department wrote on X.
The remains were found on a remote hillside covered in saguaro cacti overlooking a busy highway in southwest Tucson, an area reportedly reachable only by a lengthy hike. Sources told TMZ the bones appeared "bleached white," indicating they had been at the site for an extended period, with one source close to the investigation stating the remains are "definitively not Nancy Guthrie."
This marks the second discovery of human remains in the greater Tucson area within a week, following a separate finding near Interstate 10 that was also confirmed unconnected to the Guthrie case. Neither location has been publicly linked to a known identity.
Guthrie, 84, was reported missing February 1 after being taken from her home overnight without her phone or medications. Investigators have released ransom notes and DNA evidence tied to the case but have not named a suspect. A reward exceeding $1 million remains active.
Through each twist in the search, the Guthrie family has continued to lean on their faith community for strength, with Savannah publicly thanking supporters for their continued prayers as the investigation stretches into its seventh month.
Related Article: Nancy Guthrie Update: Federal Source Confirms Remains Found Near I-10 Are Not Hers
