Authorities in Arizona are intensifying their search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC’s “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie, who has been missing since January 31. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) launched an urgent investigation shortly after her disappearance was reported by family members.
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Nancy was last seen when her family dropped her off at her home in Tucson following a dinner with relatives. She was expected to attend a church service the next day but failed to appear, prompting concerns from a friend who subsequently notified her family. By midday on February 1, police had received a 911 call reporting her missing, and officers arrived at her residence just minutes later.
Sheriff Chris Nanos described the initial stages of the search as a “race against time,” particularly given Nancy’s health conditions that necessitate daily medication. Nanos noted that the case had quickly raised alarms due to the circumstances at her home, which were deemed “concerning.” It was soon revealed that Nancy suffers from various physical ailments, but has no cognitive issues.
The investigation took a grave turn on February 2 when local authorities began treating the case as a potential crime. According to Sheriff Nanos, there is substantial evidence suggesting that Nancy did not leave her home willingly. Investigators discovered “biological DNA” evidence at the scene, which they confirmed belongs to Nancy. Following this critical development, the FBI joined the search efforts, further urging the public to come forward with any relevant information.
As the investigation unfolded, disturbing reports emerged. On February 3, it was revealed that a trail of blood was discovered on the porch of Nancy’s home, alongside the remains of her Ring doorbell camera, which had been tampered with. Law enforcement has yet to clarify the specifics surrounding the blood, leading to heightened speculation and concern regarding Nancy’s fate.
In a poignant social media post, Savannah Guthrie publicly addressed her mother’s disappearance, appealing for the safe return of her “beloved mom” and urging people to pray for her. Alongside her siblings, Savannah released a video message calling for information from anyone who may have abducted Nancy, expressing dire concerns regarding her mother’s health due to her age and medication needs.
As the days progressed, a possible ransom scenario developed. Reports indicated that alleged ransom notes had been delivered to various news stations, demanding significant payments. A $50,000 reward was offered for information leading to Nancy’s recovery. Subsequently, on February 5, it was confirmed that the blood found on Nancy’s porch matched her DNA, intensifying fears that her well-being was severely compromised.
Additional security footage was later released, showing an armed individual near Nancy’s residence on the morning of her disappearance. The authorities described this individual and increased the reward for information regarding the case to $100,000. Despite these developments, no suspects have been formally identified, although authorities cleared Nancy’s family from suspicion, acknowledging their cooperation throughout the investigation.
As the PCSD continues its search efforts, they remain open to the possibility of multiple individuals being involved in her disappearance. On March 12, Sheriff Nanos indicated that investigators might have insights into the motives behind the kidnapping, although specific details remain undisclosed. This grim case has gripped both the local community in Tucson and the wider public, with the Guthrie family advocating for support and prayers as the search for Nancy continues, now over a month since she was last seen.
The sheriff’s office is still accepting tips and has encouraged anyone with information to contact them at 88-CRIME or 520-882-7463. The urgency of the situation underscores the fear that time is critical in locating Nancy Guthrie and ensuring her safe return.