Savannah Guthrie & Nancy Guthrie
Savannah Guthrie & Nancy Guthrie

TUCSON, Ariz. — A YouTuber searching for missing 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie discovered a human bone in a dry riverbed near Tucson on May 7, 2026, but authorities later determined the remains date back approximately 750 years and are unrelated to her February abduction.

AJ Wysopal, a 38-year-old Tucson resident, was live streaming his search a few miles from Guthrie's home in the Catalina Foothills area when he spotted the bone protruding from the dirt in a wash near North Craycroft Road and East River Road.

"I'm pretty sure that's a bone," Wysopal said on his livestream. "What the heck?"

Wysopal poked at the object with a hiking stick, attempted to dig around it and then contacted 911. Viewers on the stream reacted with comments including "BODY" and expressions of shock.

Investigation and Determination

Pima County authorities responded to the scene. The Pima County medical examiner's office determined the bone was too old to relate to a recent death. James Watson, curator of bioarchaeology at the Arizona State Museum, inspected the remains and confirmed they belonged to a member of the Hohokam people, an ancient group considered ancestors to modern Native Americans in Arizona.

Tucson police stated the discovery was not part of a crime scene. The find shifted from a potential lead in the high-profile Guthrie case to an archaeological matter.

The location was about seven miles from Guthrie's residence. Nancy Guthrie, mother of "Today" show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, was abducted from her home on Feb. 1, 2026. Investigators believe she was taken in the early morning hours.

Context of the Guthrie Case

As of May 2026, the search for Nancy Guthrie had entered its fourth month with no arrests and no confirmed suspect. The family offered a substantial reward for information leading to her recovery. The case drew national attention and prompted civilian searches, including those by Wysopal and other YouTubers.

Wysopal began his YouTube channel after Guthrie's disappearance and conducted multiple searches in the area. The May 7 incident marked one of several civilian efforts that generated public interest and sometimes false hopes.

Archaeological Significance

The bone is believed to be from the Hohokam culture, which inhabited the region from approximately 300 to 1500 A.D. Experts noted such discoveries are not uncommon in southern Arizona due to the area's rich prehistoric history. The remains will likely be handled according to protocols for ancient Native American artifacts.

Watson has fielded questions about the case and emphasized the importance of proper reporting of archaeological finds to avoid disturbing cultural sites.

Public and Media Reaction

The livestream drew significant viewership, with thousands watching in real time as police arrived. Initial speculation linked the bone to Guthrie, but officials quickly clarified its age. Media outlets covered the discovery and subsequent determination extensively.

The incident highlighted challenges in high-profile missing persons cases where public involvement can yield both useful tips and unrelated findings. Law enforcement has received tens of thousands of tips since February.

Ongoing Search Efforts

Civilian searchers continue to assist in areas around Tucson. The Pima County Sheriff's Department and FBI remain involved in the Guthrie investigation. As of mid-May 2026, authorities had not identified new major breakthroughs.

Savannah Guthrie and the family have cooperated with investigators while appealing for public information. The case has involved doorbell camera footage, vehicle tracking and multiple search warrants.

Broader Implications

Discoveries like the ancient bone underscore the need for caution when evaluating potential evidence in missing persons investigations. Officials have urged the public to report findings to authorities rather than disturb scenes.

The Hohokam connection adds a layer of historical context to the area's landscape. Southern Arizona contains numerous archaeological sites, and modern development sometimes uncovers such remains.

Wysopal cooperated fully with detectives on scene, providing details of his search route and livestream footage. His channel focused on boots-on-the-ground efforts in the Guthrie case.

Timeline of Events

  • Feb. 1, 2026: Nancy Guthrie abducted from her Tucson-area home.
  • May 7, 2026: Wysopal discovers bone during livestreamed search.
  • May 8 onward: Medical examiner and archaeologists determine age and origin.
  • May 22, 2026: Public confirmation that the bone is prehistoric and unrelated.

The Guthrie investigation continues with active leads. The ancient bone discovery, while notable, closed one chapter of speculation without advancing the case. Law enforcement continues to process tips and evidence as the search enters its fourth month.

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