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In a distressing turn of events, Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC’s Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, has been missing for nearly a week, prompting a full-scale investigation by local authorities and the FBI. As the search continues, investigators have confirmed that blood found at her home belongs to her, raising concerns about her well-being and the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
Timeline of Events
Nancy was last seen on the evening of January 31, 2026, around 9:30 p.m. at her residence in Catalina Foothills, Arizona. According to Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, she had enjoyed a family dinner before returning home. Her Uber ride back was logged at 9:48 p.m., and her garage door opened shortly after. However, her doorbell camera was disconnected just hours later, leaving investigators without crucial footage.
Family members grew concerned when Nancy failed to attend church the following day. A welfare check initiated by her family at 11:56 a.m. on February 1 revealed her absence. A 911 call was made at noon, escalating the urgency of the situation. Sheriff Nanos has indicated that signs of forced entry were discovered, suggesting that Nancy may have been taken against her will.
Investigation Developments
Authorities are treating Nancy’s disappearance as a potential kidnapping. The FBI, involved in the case, announced a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to her whereabouts. Despite receiving hundreds of tips, no suspects have yet been identified.
The investigation took a concerning turn when ransom notes were sent to various media outlets, demanding millions in Bitcoin for Nancy’s return. Heith Janke, the FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge, emphasised the seriousness of these notes, stating, “This is an 84-year-old grandma.” He also noted that there has been no contact from the kidnappers since the ransom demands were issued.
Health and Vulnerability
Authorities have described Nancy as a “vulnerable adult”, citing her age and health issues, which include high blood pressure and a pacemaker. Sheriff Nanos reassured the public that Nancy is mentally sharp and not suffering from dementia, but her physical condition does raise alarms about her ability to cope without her essential medication.
In a poignant video, Savannah Guthrie shared her family’s deep concerns, highlighting her mother’s fragile health and the emotional toll of her disappearance. Savannah described Nancy as a loving matriarch, adored by her grandchildren, and implored anyone with information to come forward.
Community Response and Support
The local community has rallied around the Guthrie family, expressing shock and offering assistance in the search for Nancy. Neighbours have been checking their security cameras and reporting any suspicious activity, while volunteer groups have organised to help canvass the area.
Savannah, who has been absent from the Today show, received messages of support from across the nation, including from former President Donald Trump, who promised federal assistance. Colleagues and friends from the media industry have also expressed their solidarity, with many urging the public to remain vigilant and share any information that could aid in the investigation.
Why it Matters
The troubling case of Nancy Guthrie underscores the profound impact of crime on families and communities. As the search intensifies and investigators pursue leads, it serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly and the urgent need for community vigilance. The emotional pleas from Savannah and her family highlight the human aspect of this story, resonating deeply with viewers and prompting a nationwide conversation about safety, care, and the bonds that hold families together. As the investigation unfolds, the hope remains that Nancy will return home safely, and that justice will prevail for her family.
