Urgent Update: Search for Nancy Guthrie Enters Fifth Day
- Rex Ballard
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Ransom Notes and Possible Suspect
The desperate search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC "Today" co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has entered its fifth day with no confirmed breakthroughs, as authorities continue to investigate her suspected abduction from her Catalina Foothills home. Nancy was last seen on the evening of January 31, 2026, after dinner with family members, and was reported missing the next day when she failed to attend church.
(Missing person poster for Nancy Guthrie, released by the Pima County Sheriff's Department.)
Latest Developments and Investigation Challenges
As of February 4, 2026, investigators returned to Nancy's home for further evidence collection, with increased police activity noted, including FBI agents and possible searches in nearby fields. The Pima County Sheriff's Department, led by Sheriff Chris Nanos, has emphasized that no suspect or person of interest has been identified, despite media speculation—including unconfirmed reports about family members like son-in-law Tommaso Cioni, which authorities have denied. "We’ve got hundreds of leads," Nanos stated, adding that the FBI is ramping up involvement to evaluate evidence and prioritize tips.
It has been reported that President Trump has reached out to Savannah Guthrie personally to offer his support and comfort during this ordeal. He has offered to have Federal Law Enforcement to assist in the investigation.
Key evidence includes signs of forced entry, a small amount of blood inside and outside the home (including drops on the front porch and driveway, currently under DNA testing), smashed security cameras, and an open back door. A car belonging to Nancy's daughter Annie Guthrie was impounded for forensic analysis. Nancy's pacemaker is being monitored for potential location clues, though no updates have been shared.
Ransom notes sent to media outlets like TMZ and KOLD News, demanding millions in Bitcoin, remain under FBI review for authenticity. Some notes include details about Nancy's clothing and home interior, raising questions about their legitimacy. Former FBI agents have described the case as "very odd" due to the secluded location and lack of clear motive, with no ties to cartels or border issues.
Family and Community Response
Savannah Guthrie, who has stepped away from her Olympics coverage duties, released an emotional video statement on February 4, pleading for her mother's safe return: "We feel [the prayers] and we continue to believe that she feels them, too. ... Nancy is our mother. We are her children. She is our beacon." A family friend, Sally Shamrell, called the disappearance "heart-wrenching" during a church vigil in Tucson. The community has rallied with prayers and support, and a $2,500 reward is offered for information leading to Nancy's recovery.
Nancy is described as 5'5" tall, 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. She requires medication, making the search a "race against time." Tips can be submitted to the Pima County Sheriff's Department at 520-351-4900.
