Neighbours of missing Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC Today host Savannah Guthrie, have described the chaotic scene as authorities launched an intensive search through their affluent Tucson neighbourhood. The unsettling events unfolded after Nancy was reported missing from her $1 million home in Arizona's Catalina Foothills area.
Unprecedented Police Activity in Quiet Community
One neighbour, speaking anonymously to local media, recalled the dramatic Sunday night search operation that saw police vehicles driving up and down the street with flashing lights while a helicopter circled overhead. The resident described the substantial police presence as 'very unusual' for an area typically known for its peaceful atmosphere where residents routinely walk dogs, cycle, and exchange morning greetings.
Sheriff Confirms Suspicious Circumstances
During a Monday press conference, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed authorities were treating the disappearance as suspicious, stating 'We do in fact have a crime scene' at Nancy's residence. The sheriff revealed concerning evidence discovered by homicide detectives, though specific details remain undisclosed. The FBI has been notified about the disappearance.
Sheriff Nanos emphasised that Nancy 'is very limited in her mobility' and did not simply walk away from her home. 'There are other things at the scene that indicate she did not leave on her own,' he added during the briefing.
Critical Personal Items Left Behind
Authorities confirmed several troubling details about Nancy's disappearance:
- Her mobile phone, wallet, and car remained at the property
- She left without taking essential medication required for her wellbeing
- Despite mobility issues, she does not suffer from dementia or cognitive decline
Extensive Search Operation Underway
The search has mobilised multiple agencies and resources across the Catalina Foothills area:
- Police conducting door-to-door inquiries requesting doorbell camera footage
- Volunteer rescue groups combing through brush and desert terrain
- Helicopters equipped with infrared cameras scanning the area
- Drone deployment to assist in the search efforts
- Customs and Border Patrol involvement due to the property's proximity to the Mexican border, approximately 75 miles away
Neighbourhood Reaction and Timeline
Neighbour Jeff Lamie expressed the community's concern, noting 'It's a very safe neighbourhood. This is highly unusual, and we are very concerned about her.' Another resident, Paul Arnaud, reported hearing that Nancy vanished shortly after being dropped off from a church function on Saturday night around 9:45pm. Family members raised the alarm when she failed to attend Sunday morning service, reporting her missing around noon.
Family Statement and Appeal
Savannah Guthrie, who was absent from work on Monday, issued a statement through NBC Today: 'I want to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers, and messages of support. 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, anyone with information to contact the Pima County Sheriff's office.'
The sheriff's office continues to urge Catalina Foothills residents to review their security camera footage for any suspicious activity and report findings to investigators as the search for Nancy Guthrie enters a critical phase.
