Search Continues for Savannah Guthrie's Missing Mother Amid Kidnapping Fears

Sun Feb 08 2026 00:51:28 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Authorities are intensifying their search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, who disappeared last week in what is being treated as a kidnapping case. The investigation includes examining ransom notes and gathering evidence, yet no suspects have been identified.

Nancy Guthrie, 84, has been missing for over a week, raising concerns for her health as she requires daily medications. Investigators believe she was taken from her Arizona home against her will, with evidence including DNA found on her doorstep. Ransom notes have been received by media outlets, but it's unclear if they are genuine, adding complexity to the ongoing investigation. The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information about her whereabouts.

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — A week has passed since Today show host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy, disappeared from her home in Tucson, Arizona, in what authorities have classified as a kidnapping.

Investigators are currently combing through ransom notes and gathering evidence, although they have yet to name any suspects in the case. Earlier this week, officers revisited Nancy Guthrie's upscale neighborhood as part of their continued search.

The Disappearance

Family members reported last seeing Nancy at approximately 9:48 PM on January 31, after spending an evening together. Concern grew the following day when she failed to attend church, leading them to check on her and ultimately report her missing.

At 84, Nancy requires daily medications due to her health issues, including a pacemaker, heightening worries among her family and authorities that her condition could be deteriorating rapidly.

Evidence Collection

Authorities are treating the situation as a kidnapping, noting evidence such as blood found on the porch of Nancy's home, which has been confirmed to be hers. Investigators discovered that a doorbell camera was disconnected early on the day she went missing, and while movement was recorded shortly afterward, the footage could not be obtained due to a lack of an active subscription to the service.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that efforts to access the camera footage continue.

Ransom Notes

Media outlets have recently received purported ransom notes, which they promptly handed over to the authorities. After a review, one of the notes was determined to be a hoax, but investigators are taking the remaining communications seriously. Reports indicate that at least one note contained a specific demand for money and referenced familiar elements related to Nancy's home.

Family Appeals

As concerns about Nancy's health grow, especially given her need for vital medications, her children have taken to social media. They posted videos addressing Nancy's abductor, pleading for proof of her safety. Savannah Guthrie notably expressed her desperation for confirmation that her mother is alive, emphasizing the risks associated with modern technology's capability for deception.

Trump’s Involvement

The FBI has stepped up its assistance, offering a $50,000 reward for credible information. President Donald Trump publicly stated that he had contacted Savannah and directed federal authorities to provide aid to the investigation.

Public Attention

This case has garnered significant media attention, echoing famous kidnapping cases throughout U.S. history. Other high-profile abductions have left lasting marks on the public consciousness, highlighting the continuing concerns surrounding such incidents.