What we know about the search for Nancy Guthrie
The Desperate Search for Nancy Guthrie Continues
Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC’s “TODAY” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, remains missing, with growing concerns over her whereabouts and physical condition. The 84-year-old was reported missing from her home in the Catalina Foothills, an unincorporated community north of Tucson, Arizona, on Sunday.
Authorities Consider Kidnapping or Abduction
Local authorities have described the case as a potential kidnapping or abduction, with reports of ransom notes circulating. According to Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, Guthrie was last seen at family gatherings on Saturday and returned home that evening. She was reported missing Sunday afternoon after failing to attend church.
“The Pima County Sheriff’s Department believes Guthrie was taken ‘possibly in the middle of the night, and that includes possible kidnapping or abduction,’” Nanos stated on Thursday.
Nanos shared a timeline of events, noting blood found on the porch outside Guthrie’s house tested positive for her DNA. He declined to confirm whether there was forced entry into the residence. Guthrie’s cellphone, which was left at home, is currently in the possession of investigators.
Despite the absence of a confirmed suspect, Nanos emphasized that no one has been ruled out. “We’re actively looking at everybody we come across, in this case, everybody,” he said.
Medical Concerns Highlight Urgency
Reports indicate that Guthrie’s health is precarious. Nanos noted she does not have cognitive issues, describing her as “sharp as a tack,” but confirmed she has limited mobility and requires daily medication to survive. “She is mobile. It’s a challenge for her to get, as the family says, she couldn’t walk 50 yards by herself,” he added.
On Sunday, her pacemaker—typically implanted under the skin to regulate heartbeat—disconnected from its monitoring app on her phone. This detail has heightened concerns about her medical condition.
Savannah Guthrie Pleads for Her Mother’s Return
In an emotional video posted to her Instagram page on Wednesday, Savannah Guthrie urged for her mother’s safe return. “She lives in constant pain. She is without any medicine. She needs it to survive, and she needs it not to suffer,” she said, flanked by her sister, Annie, and brother, Camron.
Ransom Note Investigation Underway
Reports suggest a possible ransom note has been sent to three news outlets referencing Guthrie. NBC News reviewed a copy of the note, which aligns with descriptions provided by the FBI and the news outlets. However, no law enforcement agency has yet substantiated the note.
“Heith Janke, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Phoenix division, said Thursday that the possible ransom note is being investigated. He said one reported ransom note ‘had”
The FBI is processing Guthrie’s home as a crime scene, with NBC News footage from Friday night showing a car being towed from the residence. The vehicle, previously seen in her garage, is believed to belong to her.
