Investigators in southern Arizona have confirmed that the search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, remains without a suspect or person of interest as of Wednesday. This update comes four days after her disappearance, which involved signs of forced entry at her home in the Tucson area.
Details of the Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie was last seen around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday at her residence, where she lived alone. She was reported missing midday Sunday after a family member was alerted by someone from her church that she had not attended. Authorities believe she was taken against her will, citing evidence of a nighttime kidnapping and forced entry. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that Guthrie, who has limited mobility and requires daily medication, is of sound mind and unlikely to have left on her own.
Investigation Efforts
The sheriff's department has been actively gathering evidence, including DNA samples submitted for analysis, though none have pointed to any suspects so far. Detectives are reviewing surveillance video from nearby homes, data from area license plate cameras, and local cellphone tower information. Multiple media organizations reported receiving purported ransom notes on Tuesday, which have been handed over to investigators. The department is taking these tips seriously but has declined to comment further.
Public Appeals and Family Focus
During a news conference on Tuesday, Sheriff Nanos and the Tucson FBI chief urged the public to provide any tips that could aid the investigation. Nanos emphasized the urgency, noting that Guthrie could die without her medication and expressing hope that she is found alive. Savannah Guthrie has stepped away from her professional duties, including coverage of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, to be with her family during this difficult time.
Background on the Guthrie Family
Savannah Guthrie, who grew up in Tucson and graduated from the University of Arizona, has deep roots in the area. Her parents settled there in the 1970s, and she has credited her mother with holding the family together after her father's death when she was 16. The Today show has dedicated segments to Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, highlighting the personal impact on the host and her family.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on gathering leads and supporting the Guthrie family, with no breakthroughs reported yet.
