Search Intensifies for Savannah Guthrie’s Missing Mother, Nancy Guthrie
Authorities are intensifying their search for Nancy Guthrie, missing mother of Today anchor Savannah Guthrie. With alarming details emerging from her home, the investigation is focusing on the possibility of abduction. Savannah has traveled to Arizona to be near her family during this distressing time. #FindNancy #GuthrieFamily #MissingPerson #SavannahGuthrie
Authorities have provided new insights into the ongoing search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC’s Today anchor Savannah Guthrie, who has been reported missing in Arizona. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos spoke exclusively to Us Weekly, revealing that investigators have encountered alarming details at Nancy’s residence that have raised concerns about her well-being.
“Something unusual at that house occurred that made us go, ‘Wow, something’s wrong here. Something doesn’t fit,’” Sheriff Nanos stated on February 2. “We’re gonna pull all the stops and go at all angles. We really do hope it’s a search and rescue mission and we find her and she’s safe and sound. But it would be unjust if we didn’t look at what’s in front of us and go, ‘We need to act.’” Nanos also mentioned the emotional state of Nancy’s family, emphasizing their deep desire for her safe return. “This is an 84-year-old lady who is safe in her own home asleep, and she is taken. And that should never happen,” he added.
The investigation has taken a serious turn, as Nanos expressed his belief that Nancy may have been abducted. “I believe she was abducted, yes. She didn’t walk from there. She didn’t go willingly,” he said in a separate interview with CBS News. The alarming news broke on February 1, when it was reported that Nancy was missing. Sheriff Nanos described the situation as “very concerning,” noting that authorities are not ruling out foul play.
According to information from the Pima County Sheriff’s Office, Nancy was last seen at her home on the evening of January 31. When she failed to attend church the following morning, a concerned church member reached out to her family, prompting them to check her residence around 11 a.m. that day. During a press conference, police highlighted that Nancy has mobility issues and requires essential daily medication, adding to the urgency of the search.
“We know she didn’t just walk out of there,” Nanos reassured. “She did not leave on her own. … Nancy Guthrie is of great, sound mind. This is not dementia-related. She is as sharp as a tack. The family wants everybody to know this isn’t somebody who just wandered off.”
As the search for Nancy intensifies, Savannah Guthrie, 54, has traveled to Arizona to be with her family during this distressing time. Sheinelle Jones stepped in for Savannah during Monday’s episode of Today, allowing the anchor to focus on her family’s needs. During the broadcast, Jones and co-anchor Craig Melvin read a statement from Savannah’s family, expressing their gratitude for the support they have received. “On behalf of our family, I want to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers, and messages of support. 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 Department at 520-351-4900,” the statement read.
Neighbors have reported increased police activity in the area, with officers canvassing nearby streets and requesting residents to check home surveillance cameras for any clues. Authorities have mobilized an extensive search effort, deploying search and rescue teams, volunteers, dogs, border patrol agents, and helicopters in hopes of locating the missing 84-year-old.
One neighbor shared their concerns with Us Weekly, stating, “[Nancy] was always asking about other people and always concerned about them — never shining the light on herself, but always on others. We are all worried about her. … [We are] in complete shock and very concerned.”
Savannah Guthrie has previously honored her mother on the Today show, celebrating her values and character during heartfelt segments. On her 80th birthday in 2022, Savannah praised her mother’s curiosity and integrity, stating, “She’s lived a life of integrity and loyalty. She is a consistent doer of the right thing and the hard thing. She’s a truth teller, whether you really want to hear the truth or not. She’s quick and she’s smart.” As the search continues, the Guthrie family hopes for positive news soon.
