As the search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie enters its second week, investigators have uncovered a critical lead that may shed light on her mysterious disappearance from her Tucson, Arizona residence.

Images obtained by Fox News Digital reveal unsettling traces of blood near the entrance and driveway of Guthrie’s home, hinting at a potentially violent event that may have occurred.

Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden, speaking to Fox News Digital, explained, “The blood patterns suggest that Nancy Guthrie was bleeding, possibly from her hands or face. The characteristic pale centers or ‘donut’ shapes in the droplets typically indicate bleeding from the nose or mouth, as they mix with air.”

Baden further speculated, “This pattern suggests she might have been coughing up blood or experiencing a nosebleed. Alternatively, it could result from a cut on the hands or face.”

Authorities have confirmed that DNA testing on the blood samples has verified they belong to Nancy Guthrie, adding another layer of urgency to the ongoing investigation.

Baden added the blood droplets signify Nancy Guthrie was either unable or did not attempt to stop the bleeding as she moved from the front of her house to the driveway.

“This blood dropped onto the porch area during an abduction,” Baden said. “They indicate that it did not occur by innocent means.”

“They happened not in a normal, innocent way where it could be covered up or have iodine and bandages put on it.”

Law enforcement previously confirmed DNA analysis of the droplets confirmed the blood belonged to Nancy Guthrie. (Derek Shook for Fox News Digital)

Baden pointed to the nature of the blood droplets and the location in which they were found suggest she was bleeding as she was being abducted. 

“These are not innocent droplets. From the shape, number of droplets and the place of the droplets outside the house on the porch, they are entirely consistent and indicative of occurring during an abduction.” 

Guthrie vanished from her Tucson, Arizona, home in the early morning hours of Sunday, Feb. 1. She was reported missing later the same day after she did not attend a weekly livestream of her church with friends. 

An undated photo of Nancy Guthrie and Savannah Guthrie was provided by NBC in response to the disappearance of the 84-year-old mother of the “Today” show host. (Courtesy of NBC)

In a statement, the FBI said it continues to seek the public’s help.

“We appreciate the assistance and support we have received from the Tucson community. The FBI continues to offer a $50,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of Nancy Guthrie. You can help by submitting tips to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI,” the agency said.

Authorities have not named any suspects or persons of interest in Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, and no arrests have been made.