In a deeply emotional and public appeal, NBC "Today" show anchor Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have directly addressed both potential kidnappers and their missing 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, pleading for proof of life and her safe return. The family's heartfelt statements were shared on social media, coming days after Nancy's disappearance from her home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona, which authorities believe was an abduction.
A Family's Direct Appeal for Communication and Proof
Speaking with visible distress, Savannah Guthrie stated that her family is prepared to engage in dialogue with those holding her mother. "We are ready to talk. However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated," Guthrie explained, underscoring the need for verifiable confirmation. "We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us."
This appeal references ransom notes reportedly received by several media outlets on Tuesday, which have been handed over to investigators. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has acknowledged taking these notes and other tips seriously, though officials have declined to provide further commentary on their contents.
Tearful Messages to a Beloved Mother
The Guthrie sisters also directed poignant words to their mother, Nancy. Fighting back tears, Savannah said, "Mommy, if you are hearing this, you are a strong woman. You are God’s precious daughter, Nancy. We believe and know that even in this valley, he is with you. Everyone is looking for you, Mommy. Everywhere. We will not rest. Your children will not rest until we are together again."
Her sister, Annie, added a simple, powerful plea: "Mama, mama, if you’re listening, we need you to come home. We miss you."
Ongoing Investigation into Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Nancy's disappearance. She was last seen at approximately 9:45 PM on Saturday after being dropped off at her home following a family dinner. She was reported missing the next day when she failed to appear at church.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos addressed public concerns, stating, "Is there somebody out there who’s kidnapping elderly people in the middle of the night, every night? We don’t believe that’s the case. We believe Nancy was taken from her home against her will."
Evidence of forced entry at the home, combined with Nancy's known limited mobility due to health issues including high blood pressure, a pacemaker, and heart conditions, supports the theory that she did not leave voluntarily. The home has since been returned to the family's control.
Challenges in the Search and Broader Support
The search is complicated by the local desert terrain. Jim Mason, a longtime search-and-rescue commander in neighbouring Maricopa County, noted the difficulty of navigating areas dense with mesquite trees, cholla cactus, and other desert brush, which can hinder both visual searches and vehicle access.
Sheriff Nanos confirmed the existence of video footage from cameras in the area, though he did not elaborate, saying, "That’s all been submitted and we’re doing our best with the companies that own those cameras or built those cameras." Investigators are speaking with anyone who had contact with Nancy last weekend, but no suspect or person of interest has been publicly identified.
Support has emerged from across the country. Victory Church in Albany, New York, has offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to Nancy's location. Pastor Charlie Muller expressed the congregation's connection, saying, "Me and my wife, we watch Savannah every single morning. We’ve heard of her faith. We’ve heard of her mom’s faith. And she’s got such a sweet spirit."
Personal and Professional Impact for Savannah Guthrie
The "Today" show has opened with coverage of the disappearance for three consecutive days, though Savannah Guthrie has been absent from the anchor desk. NBC Sports has confirmed she will not cover the upcoming 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, as she focuses on her family during this crisis.
On a national level, the White House confirmed that President Donald Trump called and spoke with Savannah Guthrie on Wednesday, offering support during the family's ordeal.
