The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC’s “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has gripped national attention as a suspected abduction case in Tucson, Arizona. Nancy was last seen at her home in the Catalina Foothills area around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026. She was reported missing the following day, Sunday, February 1, after failing to attend church services, prompting family members to check her residence and contact authorities.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department quickly classified the case as a potential crime, declaring Nancy’s home a crime scene. Investigators believe she was taken against her will, citing signs of forced entry, blood evidence at the scene, and the fact that Nancy—described as having limited mobility, no cognitive issues, and reliance on essential medications—could not have left voluntarily. Her personal items, including her cellphone, wallet, and vehicle, remained at the home, further supporting the abduction theory. Sheriff Chris Nanos has emphasized the urgency, noting that without her medication, Nancy’s health could deteriorate rapidly.
Savannah Guthrie and her older siblings, Annie and Camron, broke their silence on their mom’s kidnappingCredit: Instagram/savannahguthrie
The case escalated with reports of alleged ransom notes sent to local media outlets, including a Tucson news station. Authorities are investigating these communications, which reportedly demanded proof of life from the family. In response, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings—Annie and Camron—released an emotional video plea on social media on February 4, addressing potential captors directly. They expressed readiness to communicate but insisted on undeniable proof that their mother is alive, stating, “We need to know without a doubt that she is alive… We are ready to listen.” The family also thanked the public for prayers and support while urging focus on verified information to aid the investigation.
Latest Development: Nearly Empty Gas Can in Garage
In a striking new update, family members searching Savannah Guthrie’s garage discovered a nearly empty gas can. Relatives claim that Nancy Guthrie never used such an item, raising questions about its presence and potential relevance to the case. While authorities have not publicly commented on this specific find or confirmed its connection, the discovery has been noted by those close to the family as unusual given Nancy’s age, limited mobility, and lifestyle.
This development adds another layer to an already complex investigation involving multiple agencies, including the FBI, Border Patrol, and local law enforcement. No suspects or persons of interest have been publicly identified, despite widespread speculation and unverified claims circulating online. Sheriff Nanos has cautioned against sharing false information or accusations, stressing that it hinders progress and can damage innocent parties. The department continues to follow hundreds of leads, process forensic evidence from the home (including DNA samples), and coordinate searches in the surrounding area.
Nancy’s family has been actively involved, with Savannah taking a temporary leave from her “Today” hosting duties to be with relatives in Tucson. Community vigils, including one at St. Philip’s in the Hills Episcopal Church, have drawn supporters praying for Nancy’s safe return. Neighbors in the affluent Catalina Foothills subdivision describe shock and heightened concern, with increased police presence and media attention transforming the quiet neighborhood.
The investigation highlights the challenges of high-profile missing persons cases, where public scrutiny can amplify both helpful tips and harmful rumors. Authorities maintain that Nancy was likely targeted in a deliberate act, though motives remain unclear. They have reiterated appeals for information, encouraging tips via the Pima County Sheriff’s tip line at (520) 351-4900 or 911.
As the search enters its fifth day, the family’s pleas underscore the emotional toll: “The light is missing from our lives. Nancy is our mother… Bring her home.” Hope persists that ongoing forensic work, public awareness, and any credible leads will lead to Nancy Guthrie’s safe recovery. The situation remains fluid, with authorities urging patience and reliance on official updates rather than speculation.
