Former FBI Agent Suggests Personal Grievance as Motive in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance

23 February 2026 U.S. News

PHOENIX, Ariz. — As the search for Nancy Guthrie enters its fourth week, a former FBI agent with extensive experience in violent crimes and missing persons cases has put forward a fresh perspective on the mysterious disappearance. Jonny Grusing, who served 25 years with the FBI’s Denver Division and authored a true crime book on a serial killer, believes the case may hinge on a suspect harboring a personal grievance against Guthrie.

Grusing emphasized that his theory is based solely on publicly available information and is intended to stimulate new leads. “The first thing he does is with his glove, and with his glove, it doesn’t look like he’s trying to take [the camera] off,” Grusing remarked, referencing a detail from surveillance footage that has been widely circulated. This observation, he said, could indicate a more targeted, personal motive rather than a random act.

The disappearance of Guthrie, a case that has captivated national attention, has prompted extensive investigations by local and federal authorities. The FBI’s Phoenix Field Office continues to work closely with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, which has cautioned against public interference in the ongoing search efforts.

Experts have noted that security measures and the circumstances surrounding Guthrie’s disappearance make a cross-border abduction unlikely. This assessment aligns with Grusing’s suggestion that the perpetrator may have had a personal vendetta, narrowing the pool of potential suspects.

DNA analysis remains a critical component of the investigation, though officials have acknowledged that technical challenges could delay results for several months. The National Institute of Justice provides guidelines on forensic DNA testing that underscore the complexity and time-intensive nature of such analyses.

Meanwhile, the case has inspired a growing community of “mom detectives” and amateur sleuths exchanging tips and theories online, reflecting the public’s deep concern and desire to aid in resolving the mystery.

Grusing’s insights come at a pivotal moment, as law enforcement agencies ramp up efforts to piece together Guthrie’s last known movements and identify any individuals who may have held grudges against her. The Pima County Sheriff’s Office continues to appeal for anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of official channels to preserve the integrity of the investigation.

As the community awaits answers, the renewed focus on a personal grievance motive may provide a crucial breakthrough in a case that has baffled investigators and grieved loved ones alike. The FBI and local authorities remain committed to uncovering the truth behind Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, urging vigilance and cooperation from the public.

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Priya Desai covers technology, platforms and data privacy, with a focus on how AI, social media and digital policy are reshaping work, speech and daily life.
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