Savannah Guthrie, the prominent co-host of NBC's Today show, was notably absent from Monday's broadcast following distressing family news. Her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, has been reported missing from her home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona, prompting an extensive search operation and expressions of deep concern from law enforcement.
Family Statement and Show Announcement
During Monday's programme, Guthrie's colleagues Sheinelle Jones and Craig Melvin addressed her absence, describing it as a "deeply personal story" affecting their co-host. They shared a heartfelt statement prepared by Guthrie on behalf of her family, which conveyed gratitude for public support while emphasising their primary focus.
"On behalf of our family, I want to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers and messages of support," the statement read. "Right now, our focus remains on the safe return of our dear mom. We thank law enforcement for their hard work on this case and encourage anyone with information to contact the Pima County Sheriff's Department."
Law Enforcement's Grave Concerns
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos spoke to reporters about the case, revealing that Nancy Guthrie was reported missing around noon on Sunday. He described the situation as "very concerning" despite confirming she has no cognitive issues and is considered "very alert and of sound mind."
Sheriff Nanos indicated that aspects of the scene at Nancy's home had prompted "grave concern" among investigators. While not elaborating on specific findings, he confirmed that "concerning evidence" had been discovered, leading to homicide investigators being brought into the case.
Extensive Search Operation Underway
The search for Nancy Guthrie has mobilised significant resources, according to authorities. Sheriff Nanos confirmed that drones, aircraft, and dog teams have been deployed, with some resources loaned from Customs and Border Protection forces. The FBI has also been made aware of the case.
Tom Winter, NBC's crime and security correspondent, provided additional context during the Today show segment. "What they found there led them to this point where they thought this was something that required their urgent attention," Winter explained. "They were able to get out helicopters last night that use infrared cameras. They've got drones up. They've enlisted the help of the Customs and Border Protection."
Details of the Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on the evening of January 31 at her residence near East Skyline Drive and North Campbell Avenue in Catalina Foothills. The Pima County Sheriff's Office has released a detailed description: she stands 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighs approximately 150 pounds, and has brown hair with blue eyes.
Sheriff Nanos emphasised the unusual nature of the case during his press conference. "This one stood out because of what was described to us at the scene and what we found and located just in looking at the scene," he stated, while maintaining that foul play has not been ruled out.
Mother-Daughter Bond Previously Highlighted
Nancy Guthrie has appeared on the Today show in the past, and Savannah has spoken publicly about their close relationship. During a Mother's Day segment in 2023, Savannah shared emotional reflections about her mother's support during challenging times.
"When I was in my 30s, I really wished to be married and to be a mom, and things just did not happen that fast for me," Savannah told viewers. "And my mom's confidence that I would be a mom—even as the years ticked by and ticked by and ticked by—meant so much to me."
She continued: "She said, 'Of course you'll be a mom, and you're going to be a wonderful mom.' And for her to have that confidence and faith was so meaningful to me. It got me through some really hard times."
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Authorities remain actively engaged in the search, with Sheriff Nanos expressing both hope and concern about the outcome. "We hope we find her safe and sound, but we are very concerned," he told reporters. The investigation continues to develop as multiple agencies collaborate to locate Nancy Guthrie.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department has urged anyone with information to contact them directly at (520) 351-4900, while Savannah Guthrie's family maintains their focus on her safe return.
