The mysterious disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie from her residence has left investigators grappling with perplexing evidence, including blood traces and dubious ransom demands that defy typical abduction patterns.

On the latest episode of “Zone 7,” Sheryl McCollum, alongside retired NYPD homicide detectives Dan Murphy and Tom Smith, and forensic pathologist Dr. Priya Banerjee, delve into the inconsistencies. They discuss how the presence of blood, the suspect’s extended stay at the scene, and Nancy’s health issues challenge the credibility of the ransom claims.

The experts further analyze the investigative approaches and the management of evidence, which could play a crucial role in determining responsibility.

For ongoing coverage as the investigation progresses, tune into “Crime Stories with Nancy Grace.”

If you’re a fan of “Zone 7,” consider leaving a rating and review on your podcast platform. Your input not only helps others discover the show but also supports its mission to inform, engage, and inspire listeners.

Get ready to explore more with Sheryl’s forthcoming book, “Swans Don’t Swim in a Sewer: Lessons in Life, Justice, and Joy from a Forensic Scientist, due out in May 2026 from Simon and Schuster.

Guest Bios

Dr. Priya Banerjee is a board-certified forensic pathologist with extensive experience in death investigation, clinical forensics, and courtroom testimony. A graduate of Johns Hopkins, she served for over a decade as Rhode Island’s state medical examiner and now runs a private forensic pathology practice.

Dan Murphy is a retired NYPD Detective-Sergeant with extensive experience in homicide, major case investigations, and counterterrorism. During his career, he served in units including the Major Case Squad and the FBI/NYPD Joint Terrorism Task Force. Since retiring from law enforcement, Dan has served as Chief Security officer for U.S. Bancorp, co-authored, “Workplace Safety: Establishing an Effective Violence Prevention Program,” and co-hosts the podcast, “Gold Shields.”

Tom Smith is a retired NYPD detective and 2024 National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame inductee. Over 30 years of service, he worked in patrol, narcotics, and robbery investigations and spent 17 years working with the FBI/NYPD on the Joint Terrorism Task Force, including an overseas deployment to Afghanistan. Tom co-hosts the podcast “Gold Shields,” lectures on criminal justice and terrorism, and provides investigative commentary for national media outlets.

About the Host

Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an active crime scene investigator for a Metro Atlanta Police Department and the director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, which partners with colleges and universities nationwide.

With more than 4 decades of experience, she has worked on thousands of cold cases using her investigative system, The Last 24/361, which integrates evidence, media, and advanced forensic testing.

Her work on high-profile cases, including The Boston Strangler, Natalie Holloway, Tupac Shakur, and the Moore’s Ford Bridge lynching, led to her Emmy Award for “CSI: Atlanta” and induction into the National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame in 2023.

Social Links:

• Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com

• Twitter: @149Zone7

• Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum

• Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

[Feature Photo: FBI]