Marks one week since Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC’s “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, disappeared from her Catalina Foothills home in what authorities are treating as a suspected abduction.
What Happened
Nancy Guthrie was last seen at approximately 9:45 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, when family members dropped her off at her residence after dinner. She lives alone but has house staff who regularly assist her.
The following morning, Sunday, February 1, when Nancy failed to appear at her regular church service, a concerned friend contacted the family. After searching the property for about an hour, her children reported her missing to the Pima County Sheriff’s Office around noon.
The Investigation
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told reporters that investigators believe Nancy “was taken against her will” based on evidence found at the scene. Blood discovered on the porch has been confirmed through DNA testing to belong to Nancy Guthrie.
“We know she didn’t just walk out of there,” Nanos stated at a press conference earlier this week. The home has been declared a crime scene, with security camera footage showing that a surveillance camera was removed from the property.
One crucial clue emerged from Nancy’s medical devices. She has a pacemaker, and data shows the implanted device stopped syncing with her Apple Watch and iPhone around 2 a.m. on Sunday — approximately the time investigators believe she was taken. When law enforcement arrived at her home hours later, both devices were still inside the property.
Health Concerns
Sheriff Nanos emphasized the urgency of the situation due to Nancy’s medical condition. “She has high blood pressure, cardiac issues, and requires daily medication,” he explained. “If she goes without her medication for more than 24 hours, it could prove life-threatening.”
Nancy’s medication was found at her home, further supporting the theory that she did not leave voluntarily. While the sheriff noted that Nancy “has no cognitive issues” and is “very alert, of good, sound mind,” her physical health remains a serious concern.
Ransom Notes and False Leads
The investigation has been complicated by multiple ransom communications. Authorities confirmed they are investigating several messages, including one sent to a local Arizona news station and others received by the family.
At least one arrest has been made in connection with a fraudulent ransom note, but investigators continue to treat other communications seriously. Sheriff Nanos has been careful not to disclose complete details about potential ransom demands to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Family’s Emotional Plea
On Tuesday, Savannah Guthrie appeared alongside her sister Annie Guthrie and brother Camron Guthrie in an emotional video message directed at whoever may be holding their mother.
“We have seen the news reports about a ransom letter,” Savannah said, holding her sister’s hand. “As a family, we are doing everything possible. We are open to communication. However, we live in a world where images and voices can be easily distorted. We need to be absolutely certain that she is alive and in your possession.”
Annie Guthrie read from a letter addressed to their mother: “Our lives are dim without you. Nancy is our mother; she is our guiding light. She clings to joy through every situation life throws at her. She chooses happiness daily, despite enduring significant pain and loss.”
“Momma, if you can hear us, we want you to come back home,” Annie added tearfully.
Olympic Coverage Changes
The impact of Nancy’s disappearance has extended to NBC’s programming. Savannah Guthrie, who was scheduled to co-host NBC’s Opening Ceremony coverage of the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics on February 6, withdrew from the assignment to be with her family.
In a show of solidarity, her co-host Craig Melvin, who was slated to host Olympic Late Night coverage from Milan, also remained stateside. NBC replaced both anchors with veteran Olympic commentators.
“Our hearts are with Savannah and the entire Guthrie family as the search continues for their mother,” an NBC Sports spokesperson said in a statement. “They continue to have our full support.”
The Search Continues
As of Friday evening, February 7, investigators have not identified any suspects or persons of interest in the case. Sheriff Nanos stated during Thursday’s press conference that authorities are transitioning from extensive air and ground searches to a more focused investigative approach.
“We still believe Nancy is still out there,” Nanos emphasized. “We want to save her.”
A significant law enforcement presence, including more than 10 vehicles from multiple agencies, returned to Nancy’s home on Friday evening. A vehicle, believed to be a blue Subaru SUV, was towed from the property to an impound facility for processing as part of standard investigative procedures.
Federal investigators, including the FBI, are working alongside local authorities on the case. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is urging anyone with information to come forward.
How to Help
Anyone with information about Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance is asked to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department at 520-351-4900 or call 88-CRIME (520-882-7463). All calls remain anonymous. Tips can also be submitted through the mobile app P3TIPS or by visiting 88crime.org.
The Guthrie family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers from across the country as they await news of their beloved mother and grandmother.
