Nancy Guthrie update: Case takes new turn as report alleges early investigative missteps; 'blood evidence overlooked'

The Wall Street Journal reports that investigators overlooked dried blood on Nancy Guthrie's porch, initially believing it was from an unrelated injury, but DNA later confirmed it was hers.

Pima County deputies delayed securing Guthrie's home, allowing reporters, influencers, and delivery drivers to approach the scene; crime-scene tape was not put up until three days after her disappearance.

Investigators spent hours debating whether the case was a kidnapping or missing-person, and the department's $1.7 million surveillance plane remained grounded because no deputy was qualified to operate its camera.

Sergeant David Stivers, head of homicide for Pima County, arrived hours after Guthrie was reported missing and paid little attention to the blood stains.

The report from The Wall Street Journal alleges early investigative missteps, including the mishandling of evidence and delays that may have hampered the search for Guthrie.