Nancy Guthrie may have been dragged away by a wild animal

Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of "Today" show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, vanished from her Tucson-area home in circumstances that authorities have described as a suspected abduction, with no credible evidence pointing to a wild animal attack.

Reports of blood found on her driveway and inside the residence, signs of forced entry, and indications of a struggle have led the Pima County Sheriff's Department to treat the case as a crime scene involving possible kidnapping. Investigators believe she was taken against her will—potentially even from her bed—sometime after being dropped off by family following a dinner on the evening of January 31, 2026. She was reported missing the next day when she failed to appear at church.

While the Catalina Foothills area near her home features desert terrain where wildlife such as bobcats, mountain lions, or coyotes are present, no official statements or evidence from law enforcement suggest an animal was involved in dragging her away. Speculation in some online discussions has floated theories of a wild animal encounter to explain blood traces or her disappearance, but these remain unsubstantiated and are not supported by the ongoing investigation, which includes FBI assistance and focus on human suspects, ransom note claims, and people known to the family.

Nancy Guthrie, who has limited mobility and requires vital medication, was last seen around 9:45 p.m. that Saturday. Her phone, wallet, and car remained at the home, heightening concerns. Family members, including Savannah Guthrie, have made public pleas for her safe return, emphasizing the urgency due to her health needs.

As the search enters its fifth day, authorities continue to urge anyone with information to contact the Pima County Sheriff's Department or the FBI tip line. The case remains active, with no confirmed suspects or resolution as of February 5, 2026.