In the confirmed timeline, 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie vanished early February 1 from her Catalina Foothills home. Authorities found signs of forced entry, blood inside, and a disabled security camera. Her phone, wallet, car, and medications were left behind — indicating she did not leave voluntarily.
Federal agents and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department traced activity in the 24 hours prior. During a financial review, investigators found a credit card purchase late January 31 at a gas station about five kilometers from her home. The items: a black balaclava and tactical gloves — consistent with concealment and avoiding fingerprints.
Surveillance reportedly shows a man entering without a mask, buying the items at self-checkout, then adjusting the balaclava after exiting. Sources say the uncovered facial image is clear enough for identification and has been shown to key witnesses, including Savannah Guthrie. Officials have not confirmed any identification.
Investigators are aligning the purchase with the crime timeline, reviewing receipts, traffic cameras, and movement data. Forensic teams are also comparing the gloves to evidence from the scene.
Authorities stress that a purchase alone does not prove guilt. But the timing — a mask and gloves bought hours before blood was discovered inside her home — could represent a critical mistake in a case already marked by ransom demands and digital clues.
A card swipe.
A receipt.
And a camera still recording before the mask went on.