The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has taken a distressing and increasingly serious turn, prompting a wide-ranging investigation that now involves homicide detectives and federal authorities — and an emotional public plea from her family
Missing Since Late January
Nancy was last seen at her home in the Catalina Foothills near Tucson, Arizona, on the evening of January 31. She was reported missing the next day after failing to show up for a scheduled church visit.
Police quickly became alarmed because Nancy has limited mobility, requires daily medication, and was last seen leaving her personal items — including her phone, wallet, and car — behind, leading investigators to suspect foul play rather than a voluntary disappearance.
Evidence Points to Crime Scene
Despite these troubling clues, officials have not yet identified a suspect or person of interest, and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department is urging the public to come forward with information.
Family’s Emotional Plea
The case has deeply affected Savannah Guthrie and her family. She has stepped away from her broadcast duties, including planned coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics, to focus on the search for her mother.
In a raw and emotional video statement, Savannah and her siblings — Annie and Camron — appealed directly for Nancy’s safe return. They acknowledged media reports about a possible ransom note allegedly sent to outlets, and said the family is “ready to talk” to anyone holding Nancy — but stressed they need verification that she is alive first.
Savannah described her mother as “fragile” due to her age and health conditions, and emphasized that she urgently needs her medication.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The case has drawn significant attention locally and nationally. Security around Savannah has reportedly been beefed up amid concern for the family’s safety during this ordeal.
Neighbors described Nancy as active and beloved in her community, and local churches have held vigils and prayers for her return.
Ongoing Investigation
Federal agencies, including the FBI, are assisting local law enforcement in the probe, reviewing surveillance footage, DNA evidence, and digital records to build a clearer picture of what happened. Authorities continue to follow up on every lead, but have not ruled out any possibilities as the case remains open and active.
What You Can Do:
Anyone with information about Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance is encouraged to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department or the FBI. Any detail — no matter how small — could be crucial to bringing her safely home.
If you want, I can also provide a timeline of the key investigative developments so far so readers can follow how the case has unfolded.