A white forensics tent has been erected outside the home of missing 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie in Tucson, Arizona, covering the front door and porch area where investigators previously found blood matching her DNA.
The tent was located at the same entrance where surveillance footage captured a masked, gloved individual approaching the home and attempting to turn off the doorbell camera.
The development comes 11 days after Guthrie was allegedly abducted from her home in the early hours of February 1.
Why do investigators use white tents?
Law enforcement agencies typically set up forensic tents to protect sensitive evidence from public view and environmental contamination. Such tents are commonly used when:
-Processing potential bloodstain patterns
-Collecting trace evidence such as fibers or fingerprints
-Researching weapons or other critical items
-Scene protection from media cameras and bystanders
-Preserving evidence from weather exposure
While forensic tents are sometimes more widely used to maintain the integrity of a crime scene during detailed evidence collection.
Authorities have not confirmed why the tent was erected or what new evidence may have been identified.
The investigation is intensifying
The tent was set up a day after investigators found a pair of black gloves near Guthrie’s home. The FBI also conducted an extensive search of surrounding brush and roadways in the Catalina Foothills area.
Earlier this week, the FBI released images and video of a suspect seen near the residence on the night of Guthrie’s disappearance. The person appeared to be wearing a ski mask, black gloves, a long-sleeved jacket and a backpack.
Hundreds of agents and detectives are now assigned to the case. Authorities say they have received thousands of tips and are offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to Guthrie’s recovery.
The family is asking for help
NBC’s Today co-host Savannah Guthrie posted an emotional message after news of the tent installation, writing, “Our sweet mom. We will never give up on her. Thank you for your prayers and hope.”
Although ransoms were allegedly received, the authorities did not confirm their authenticity. Nancy Guthrie’s whereabouts remain unknown 12 days after she was first reported missing.
For now, the presence of the forensics tent signals that investigators are scrutinizing the home’s entrance — a key focal point in the case that has gripped the Tucson community and drawn national attention.