Search for Nancy Guthrie, Mother of 'Today' Show Host Savannah Guthrie, Enters Fifth Day - Abduction Investigation

Tucson, Arizona — February 5, 2026 — The urgent search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC's "Today" show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has entered its fifth day, with authorities treating the case as a suspected abduction from her home in the affluent Catalina Foothills area north of Tucson.

Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her residence on Saturday night, February 1, after family members dropped her off around 9:30 p.m. local time. She failed to appear at church the following morning, prompting friends and relatives to report her missing on Sunday afternoon. Investigators from the Pima County Sheriff's Department, assisted by the FBI, believe she was taken against her will, citing signs of forced entry at the home.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has emphasized that no suspect or person of interest has been identified, despite a high volume of public tips and leads. Authorities have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified accusations or false information, describing such actions as "irresponsible." On Wednesday, the sheriff's office explicitly stated there is "no credible information indicating this was a targeted incident," though they have not ruled out any possibilities, including connections to the family's public profile.

Evidence recovered from the scene includes a small amount of blood — with drops reportedly found inside the home and leading toward the driveway — which is undergoing DNA analysis. Outdoor cameras from the property are being reviewed, and additional items, including cellphones, are being examined by federal agents. Nancy Guthrie's car, phone, and essential daily medications were left behind, raising concerns for her well-being given her age and health needs.

Multiple media outlets, including local Arizona stations and national outlets like TMZ, have reported receiving alleged ransom notes demanding millions in bitcoin for her safe return. These communications reportedly included specific details about items in the home and what she was wearing at the time of her disappearance. Authorities are actively investigating the legitimacy of these notes, with the FBI assisting in tracing potential origins. Experts have cautioned that such demands could include hoaxes or scams amid the high-profile nature of the case.

In an emotional video posted to social media on Wednesday, Savannah Guthrie, joined by her siblings Annie and Cameron, made a tearful plea directly to their mother and any potential captors. "Everyone is looking for you, Mommy, everywhere. We will not rest," Savannah said, urging whoever may have her to "bring her home" and provide proof that she is alive. The family expressed gratitude for public support and prayers while emphasizing their willingness to communicate.

Renewed investigative activity occurred at the Guthrie home on Wednesday evening, with yellow crime scene tape, K-9 units, search teams, and increased police presence observed — despite the scene having been previously processed. This development came amid reports of over a hundred investigators involved in the effort.

A press conference from the Pima County Sheriff's Department is scheduled for this afternoon (1 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. MT), where further updates on the investigation are expected. President Trump has publicly offered federal resources to assist in the search.

The Tucson community has rallied in support, holding candlelight vigils and prayer services at local churches. Friends describe Nancy Guthrie as a beloved, active member of her congregation and neighborhood, making her absence deeply felt.Anyone with information is urged to contact the Pima County Sheriff's Department or call 911 immediately. As the search intensifies, authorities continue to follow every lead in hopes of securing Nancy Guthrie's safe return.

17GEN4.com