Nancy Guthrie Case: FBI Source Says Probe Quickly Becoming 'Cold Case'
According to a new report on the Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case, a source close to the FBI has warned that the investigation is quickly becoming a cold case. The comment adds a new layer of concern to a complex and ongoing investigation, even as the authorities continue to review evidence.
An FBI Source Claims That the Nancy Guthrie Investigation Could Quickly Be Becoming a 'Cold Case'
On the same day that Savannah Guthrie announced that a $1 million reward is being offered for information leading to her mom's recovery, a troubling new report on the case was released. TMZ reported that a source close to the FBI told them that the Nancy Guthrie investigation is quickly becoming a "cold case." Though this comes from an anonymous source and remains unconfirmed, it is concerning for anyone who wants to see Nancy Guthrie return to her family.
The source also suggested to the outlet that two potential breakthroughs could crack the case. They suggested that in four or five months, someone involved in the Guthrie abduction might brag about what they've done and draw attention. They also predicted that a person with knowledge could come forward. In addition to describing those potential outcomes, the inside source told TMZ that those scenarios are how similar cases have been solved.
What Defines a ‘Cold Case’ at the FBI?
The family of missing Tucson woman Nancy Guthrie is offering a private $1 million reward for credible information that directly leads to her return.
— FBI Phoenix (@FBIPhoenix) February 24, 2026
If you have firsthand knowledge of Nancy’s whereabouts or any information about where she may be located, please contact the FBI… pic.twitter.com/FgeWFDizcJ
The term cold case can get thrown around in the media a lot, but that doesn't necessarily mean that everyone is clear on what it means. A 2024 article on the FBI's website about a cold case that was solved provides a concise definition of how the agency defines the term.
"A cold case is just that—an investigation of a crime, usually a violent one, where all leads have been exhausted and the trail has gone cold."
An Expert Explained Why They Think The Nancy Guthrie Case Hasn't Gone Cold
Days before TMZ's report was published, Hello! Magazine interviewed forensic criminologist Dr. Ron Martinelli about the Nancy Guthrie case. During that discussion, Dr. Martinelli explained why he believed the Nancy Guthrie investigation was "far from becoming a cold case." While he has no direct involvement in the investigation, it is interesting to consider his take.
While talking to the outlet, Dr. Martinelli underlined the fact that over 400 law enforcement officials were still working the case, and doing what he called "gumshoe work," following up on all the leads. He also stated his opinion that observers shouldn't draw conclusions from a lack of public updates about promising leads. He argued that kind of information is kept under wraps before actions like arrests. In addition to noting that TV portrayals of investigations are unrealistic, he expressed confidence that a suspect will be identified.
"I am confident that we will eventually identify the kidnap suspects involved."