12:57 am - February 5, 2026
Investigators have discovered evidence of forced entry at the Tucson, Arizona home of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, according to a person familiar with the investigation. The elderly woman, who requires daily medication to survive, is believed to have been taken against her will in what authorities are treating as a suspected kidnapping.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen Saturday night at her residence in the affluent Catalina Foothills area and was reported missing Sunday after failing to appear at church. Several of her personal belongings, including her cellphone, wallet, and car, remained at the home, leading investigators to conclude she did not leave voluntarily.
Kidnapping Investigation Underway
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos and the Tucson FBI chief held a news conference Tuesday requesting public assistance but revealed limited details about the ongoing investigation. According to Sheriff Nanos, officials do not currently have credible information suggesting the suspected kidnapping was a targeted attack on the family of the prominent television journalist.
Meanwhile, investigators are utilizing multiple investigative techniques to locate the missing woman. Law enforcement is reviewing surveillance footage from neighboring properties, analyzing cellphone tower data, and examining information from license plate recognition cameras throughout the area, according to the source who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Possible Ransom Demands Surface
The investigation took a new turn Tuesday when TMZ and Tucson television station KOLD both reported receiving what appeared to be ransom notes. The purported demands requested payment in cryptocurrency for Nancy Guthrie’s release, though authorities have not confirmed the authenticity of these communications.
However, the person familiar with the investigation indicated that authorities do not currently believe the kidnapping was part of a robbery, home invasion, or traditional ransom plot. The motive behind the abduction remains unclear, complicating efforts to locate the missing woman.
Additionally, DNA samples have been collected from the scene and submitted for laboratory analysis. Sheriff Nanos stated that while some results have been returned, nothing has yet pointed investigators toward any suspects in the case.
Medical Concerns Heighten Urgency
The urgency of the search has been amplified by Nancy Guthrie’s medical needs. Sheriff Nanos confirmed that she requires daily medication and could face life-threatening consequences without it. When asked whether officials were searching for her alive, Nanos responded soberly, “We hope we are.”
In contrast to some kidnapping cases, authorities noted that Nancy Guthrie has limited mobility and is of sound mind, making it highly unlikely she wandered away on her own. Immediate search efforts included drones, canine units, volunteers, and Border Patrol support, with the homicide team also brought into the investigation.
Family Appeals for Help
Savannah Guthrie made an emotional appeal on social media Monday night, describing her mother as “a woman of deep conviction, a good and faithful servant.” The television host asked supporters to “raise your prayers with us and believe with us that she will be lifted by them in this very moment.”
The “Today” show host, who grew up in Tucson and graduated from the University of Arizona, has deep roots in the community. She previously worked as a reporter and anchor at local television station KVOA before rising to national prominence.
President Donald Trump addressed the situation Tuesday from the Oval Office, calling it “terrible” and stating he planned to call Savannah Guthrie. NBC Sports announced that Guthrie would not cover the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics to focus on her family during the crisis.
Authorities continue to investigate tips and leads as they work to locate Nancy Guthrie. The sheriff’s department has not provided a timeline for expected developments, and uncertainty remains regarding the woman’s condition and whereabouts as the investigation continues.
