Nancy Guthrie case update: Sheriff says crime scene hair sample failed DNA analysis

The case of Nancy Guthrie has entered its sixth month, and investigators were unable to obtain a DNA profile from a hair sample found inside her residence which reportedly yielded no match or suspect leads.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told Fox News Digital in a news interview on Thursday, “Yes there was a hair. We had it and thought, “Ok well, we’ll do the DNA first right? You are going to do DNA before something else.”

“It came back with no DNA, but does that mean the hair is not that of the suspect? We don't know if we will have the suspect’s hair. You don’t have to just destroy it.”

Investigators have protected the sample from any harm, and it still may be of use later, he continued.

Nanos explained that the hair was only part of the broader DNA work underway though he omitted details on how many other samples are being tested. DNA testing continues to be a priority in the case, and Nanos clarified that investigators are still working with crime labs to analyze evidence collected from the home.

“Anything we can grasp onto with DNA is a part of this investigation,” he added.

The case includes forensic investigative genetic genealogy, which is used to generate leads from a family tree, noting immediate advances in DNA technology.

According to the FBI, at least one suspect who is between 5 feet, 9 inches and 5 feet, 10 inches tall with a medium build was recorded by Guthrie’s doorbell camera. He was dressed in long sleeves and gloves, wearing a mask, and the backpack he carried has been classified as a black Ozark Trail backpack.

Authorities and Guthrie’s family had previously released community alerts that Nancy Guthrie was in poor health and lacked her necessary emergency medications.

Savannah Guthrie has been one of the few consistent voices, campaigning for ongoing coverage of the case, to ensure that her mother’s name does not fade from the news cycle.

Nonetheless, no arrest has been announced despite the images being repeatedly broadcast on television and social media, and despite a local reward notice making the rounds for months.