Authorities investigating the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, say they believe the 84-year-old woman is still alive, although no suspects have been identified. The case, which began late Saturday or early Sunday in Tucson, Arizona, has captured national attention due to the circumstances surrounding her disappearance, her age, and her reliance on daily medication.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos spoke about the ongoing investigation in an interview with NBC’s Liz Kreutz, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “We have nothing else to go on but the belief that she is here. She’s present. She’s alive, and we want to save her,” Nanos said. “Every lead we receive is critical, and we are following each one carefully.”
Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home in Tucson, and authorities quickly raised concerns that she may have been abducted. According to initial reports, items such as her identification, keys, and daily medications were left behind, suggesting she did not leave voluntarily. Given her limited mobility and need for medication, the concern for her well-being has only intensified.
A reported ransom note demanding millions in Bitcoin for Nancy Guthrie’s release was sent to TMZ’s newsroom on Tuesday. The outlet stated that the note included a specific cryptocurrency address, which was verified as legitimate. Law enforcement officials are treating the note with caution, investigating its authenticity while continuing to pursue all other leads. “Any communication that comes in is being analyzed carefully,” Sheriff Nanos said.
Savannah Guthrie, who recently returned to work following surgery, has publicly pleaded for support and prayers for her mother’s safe return. “I want to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers, and messages of support,” she said in a statement. “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 Office at 520-351-4900.”
The search involves a coordinated effort between local and federal authorities, including the FBI, and has included aerial searches using drones and planes. Authorities have also examined Nancy Guthrie’s neighborhood and surrounding areas in Tucson for any signs of her whereabouts. Sheriff Nanos noted that, while there are many leads, no suspect has been identified at this stage. “We are following every tip, and we are sharing all relevant information with the FBI and other federal partners,” he said.
President Donald Trump also commented on the ongoing case during a recent bill-signing ceremony. He called the situation “terrible” and indicated he planned to contact Savannah Guthrie directly to offer his support. Trump added that additional federal resources could be allocated to assist in the search if necessary. “Very unusual situation, but we’re going to find out,” he said, stressing the importance of bringing Nancy home safely.
The investigation has also prompted law enforcement to explore the possibility of foul play, including whether the disappearance could be a targeted abduction or part of a more complex scheme. Sources have indicated that a trail of DNA believed to be Nancy’s was found inside the home, though authorities have not confirmed whether it was blood or another bodily substance. Sheriff Nanos emphasized that all leads are being treated with the utmost seriousness.
Local neighbors have expressed shock and concern over the disappearance. Paul Arnaud, a neighbor, recounted that the front door of Nancy Guthrie’s home was left open, which contributed to suspicions of abduction. “A lot of us are worried that it was not voluntary,” he said, noting that a thorough search of the area failed to locate her.
Nancy Guthrie’s age and medical needs make the case especially urgent. She is known to require daily medication to maintain her health, and authorities fear that without access to these medications, her condition could quickly deteriorate. “Time is critical,” Nanos said, emphasizing that every hour counts in locating her safely.
Public interest in the case has surged due to Savannah Guthrie’s prominence as a Today show host and the unusual circumstances of her mother’s disappearance. Social media has been abuzz with speculation, but authorities have repeatedly urged the public not to jump to conclusions. “We ask that people respect the investigation,” Sheriff Nanos said. “Speculation can interfere with finding Nancy safely.”
The alleged ransom note, reportedly sent to TMZ, adds another layer of complexity. While authorities are verifying its authenticity, the use of cryptocurrency highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in modern ransom and abduction cases. Officials have not confirmed whether the note is genuine or a hoax, but it remains part of the ongoing investigation.
Savannah Guthrie has maintained a public presence on the situation, emphasizing concern for her mother rather than speculation about motives or suspects. “It’s beyond heartbreaking,” she said, noting that her family is focused entirely on her mother’s return. “No one should ever be in this position, and we hope that with everyone’s help, she can be brought home safely.”
Pima County law enforcement has stressed the importance of community assistance in the investigation. Anyone with information about Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance is encouraged to contact the sheriff’s office immediately. “Even seemingly small details can be critical,” Nanos said. “All tips are valuable and could lead to her safe return.”
As of the latest updates, Nancy Guthrie is still missing, but authorities remain optimistic that she is alive and can be found. The ongoing collaboration between local and federal agencies, combined with public support, aims to ensure that the 84-year-old woman is located and brought home safely.
The case underscores the heightened attention and resources that are often mobilized in situations involving missing elderly individuals, particularly those with medical needs. The community, media, and law enforcement continue to work together in the hope of a positive resolution.
Sheriff Nanos concluded, “Our priority is Nancy’s safety and return. We will continue this investigation tirelessly until we have answers. We urge anyone with information to come forward. We will do everything possible to ensure she comes home safely.”
Emily Johnson is a critically acclaimed essayist and novelist known for her thought-provoking works centered on feminism, women’s rights, and modern relationships. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Emily grew up with a deep love of books, often spending her afternoons at her local library. She went on to study literature and gender studies at UCLA, where she became deeply involved in activism and began publishing essays in campus journals. Her debut essay collection, Voices Unbound, struck a chord with readers nationwide for its fearless exploration of gender dynamics, identity, and the challenges faced by women in contemporary society. Emily later transitioned into fiction, writing novels that balance compelling storytelling with social commentary. Her protagonists are often strong, multidimensional women navigating love, ambition, and the struggles of everyday life, making her a favorite among readers who crave authentic, relatable narratives. Critics praise her ability to merge personal intimacy with universal themes. Off the page, Emily is an advocate for women in publishing, leading workshops that encourage young female writers to embrace their voices. She lives in Seattle with her partner and two rescue cats, where she continues to write, teach, and inspire a new generation of storytellers.
