Search for Savannah Guthrie's Missing Mother Intensifies Amid Kidnapping Fears

Sun Feb 08 2026 00:53:07 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Authorities have ramped up their efforts to find Nancy Guthrie, mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, who was reported missing from her Tucson home, sparking fears of a kidnapping. Investigators are delving into ransom notes while family members express their concern for her health.

Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen by family members on January 31 before being reported missing. Local authorities believe she was taken against her will, with DNA evidence suggesting foul play. Investigators have recovered ransom notes but are struggling with video evidence due to technology issues. The search continues with family and law enforcement working diligently to locate her and ensure her safety.

TUCSON, Ariz. (FlashPoint) — The search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, continues after she was reported missing from her Tucson home amid fears of kidnapping.

Investigators have been analyzing ransom notes received by several media organizations and have also been inspecting Nancy's residence for any additional evidence. Authorities believe she was taken against her will, as DNA testing confirmed that blood found on her porch was hers.

Family members last saw Nancy on January 31, when they dropped her off after a dinner together. Alarm bells began ringing when she didn't attend church the following day, prompting them to check on her and subsequently report her missing.

The Search Efforts

The Pima County Sheriff's Office has extended its search into the surrounding neighborhood, but no suspects have yet been identified. Sheriff Chris Nanos emphasized that the investigation remains a top priority.

One of the more significant challenges facing investigators is the lack of video evidence from Nancy's home, as her doorbell camera was disconnected prior to her disappearance. Despite this technological setback, the sheriff expressed hope that they might still retrieve crucial footage.

Ransom Notes and Family Concerns

Reports indicate that multiple ransom notes were sent to media outlets, some of which turned out to be hoaxes, leaving authorities cautious yet alert to any serious threats. Red flags raised include specific demands and timing associated with the notes.

Meanwhile, Nancy's family has made emotional public appeals, sharing recorded messages on social media urging her abductor to prove she is alive. Savannah referred to her mother as a beacon of kindness and light, declaring that they won't stop searching until they are reunited.

Community Support and National Attention

This troubling case has not only garnered significant media attention but also community support, as local residents have been cooperative in sharing security footage and aiding law enforcement in their investigations. Public interest in Nancy's case echoes several historic kidnapping cases that have shaken America.

The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to her safe return. As ongoing investigations unfold, authorities hope that a break in the case will surface soon, reuniting this family.