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Human Remains Found Near Nancy Guthrie Home Not Linked to Case

General6 sourcesAug 18, 2026
ContestedRigor 576 sources

Pima County Sheriff's Department deputies responded to reports of human remains discovered in a desert area near West Ajo Way and South La Cholla Boulevard in Arizona. The location is approximately 15 miles from the Tucson home of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie. Officials stated there is no indication the remains are connected to Guthrie's disappearance, which occurred in the early hours of February 1. The remains appear to have been at the location for an extended period. Chief Medical Examiner Greg Hess noted that Arizona's hot and dry environment leads to more unidentified remains being found as bodies decompose quickly. The discovery comes as the search for Guthrie and those responsible for her alleged kidnapping has stalled, with investigators yet to uncover new leads. Authorities released ransom notes in July, with a subsequent letter claiming Guthrie had died. DNA testing of hair found at Guthrie's home did not point toward a suspect. A masked intruder was captured on doorbell camera footage at Guthrie's home on the night of her abduction.

What they agree on

  • Human remains were discovered in a desert area approximately 15 miles from Nancy Guthrie's home.
  • Officials from the Pima County Sheriff's Department stated there is no indication the remains are connected to the Nancy Guthrie investigation.
  • The remains appear to have been at the location for an extended period of time.
  • Nancy Guthrie, mother of "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie, has been missing since February 1.
  • Authorities previously released ransom notes related to Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Where they split

  • CNN and other outlets report on the presence of deputies and vehicles at the scene where remains were found.
  • The Independent and The Daily Beast include details about Savannah Guthrie's public pleas for her mother's return.
  • Fox News includes commentary from retired investigator Lisa Miller regarding ransom note analysis and potential suspect identification.
  • The Sunday Guardian's headline focuses on the discovery of human bones and what authorities say about them.