HUMAN REMAINS FOUND IN DESERT ABOUT 15 MILES FROM NANCY GUTHRIE’S HOME

TUCSON, ARIZONA — Human remains have been discovered in a desert area approximately 15 miles from the home of missing woman Nancy Guthrie, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.

The discovery immediately drew attention because of the ongoing investigation into Guthrie’s disappearance. However, authorities are stressing that there is currently no indication the remains are connected to her case.

According to the sheriff’s department, the remains appear to have been at the location for an extended period of time.

AUTHORITIES RESPOND TO REMOTE DESERT LOCATION

Pima County Sheriff’s Department Search and Rescue deputies were responding to the area after the remains were reported.

Investigators are expected to examine the scene and work to determine the identity of the person whose remains were discovered.

That process can involve forensic examination, medical records, dental records and DNA testing before authorities can establish an identification.

NO KNOWN CONNECTION TO GUTHRIE CASE

Despite the proximity to Guthrie’s home, officials have cautioned against assuming the discovery is related to her disappearance.

Authorities have specifically said there is no indication at this time that the remains are connected to the Nancy Guthrie investigation.

That distinction is significant as investigators continue working on Guthrie’s case.

The discovery could ultimately prove unrelated, but authorities will still need to establish who the remains belong to and how long they had been in the area.

INVESTIGATION CONTINUES

For now, investigators face two separate questions: Who are the remains, and how did they come to be in the desert location?

Until forensic testing provides an identification, officials are not publicly linking the discovery to Guthrie.

The sheriff’s department is expected to provide additional information as investigators learn more.

The discovery has added another unsettling development to an already closely watched investigation — but authorities are urging the public not to draw conclusions before the evidence is known.