Online searches for a simple hiking backpack have increased across the United States after the Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed that the suspect in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance was carrying one.
Investigators said video footage shows a masked man with a 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack on the night the 84-year-old woman went missing from her Arizona home. The backpack is sold by Walmart and is widely available in stores and online.
After the FBI shared this detail, many people started searching for the backpack online. Some are checking if they have seen a similar bag in their area.
Reward Increased to $100,000
As the search enters its 12th day, the FBI has raised the reward for helpful information to $100,000. Earlier, the reward was $55,000.
Officials said the money will be given for information that helps find Nancy Guthrie or leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
The suspect has been described as a man about 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall, with an average build. So far, no suspect has been arrested.
Authorities say they have received more than 13,000 tips since February 1. They hope the clear images of the backpack will help them focus on useful information.
Police Ask for Doorbell Camera Footage
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has asked people living near Guthrie’s home to check their doorbell cameras and CCTV footage.
An alert was sent through the Neighbors App to users within a two-mile radius of her home near East Skyline Drive and North Campbell Avenue. Police believe the suspect may have been seen in the area that night.
Investigators are also reviewing video of a man with a black backpack seen a few miles away on the same night. The footage is still being examined.
Also Read : Search for Nancy Guthrie Intensifies After Masked Suspect Video Released
National Attention on the Case
The case has gained national attention because Nancy Guthrie is the mother of Savannah Guthrie.
Authorities believe Nancy Guthrie was taken from her home on the night of January 31. The investigation is still active, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The FBI says even small details can help. With the reward increased and new images released, investigators hope someone will recognize the backpack or the suspect and help solve the case.
Megan Davies is a reporter for White Pine Tribune. After graduating from the University of Toronto, Megan got an internship at the CBC News and worked as a reporter and editor. Megan has also worked as a reporter for Global Toronto. Megan covers economy and community events for White Pine Tribune.
