Authorities in Tucson, Arizona, have identified signs of forced entry at the home of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of television host Savannah Guthrie, who was reported missing late last weekend. The discovery indicates a potential abduction occurring during the night, with investigators actively pursuing leads to locate her.
Savannah Guthrie, known for anchoring the “Today” show, publicly appealed for prayers on social media Monday night, describing her mother as “a woman of deep conviction, a good and faithful servant.” She urged followers to join in hope and faith for Nancy Guthrie’s safe return.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos underscored the critical health concerns surrounding Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, highlighting the importance of her medication which is essential for her survival. “If she’s alive right now, her meds are vital. I can’t stress that enough,” Nanos said. Over 24 hours have passed since her disappearance, and without her medication, the situation could become fatal.
Investigative personnel found clear indicators of an overnight kidnapping at the residence, as reported by an individual with knowledge of the case who spoke under anonymity. Despite her disappearance, several of Guthrie’s personal belongings, including her cellphone, wallet, and vehicle, were left untouched at the property.
Efforts to track Guthrie’s whereabouts involve reviewing surveillance footage from nearby residences, analyzing cellphone tower data, and inspecting license plate camera records in the surrounding area. These measures aim to capture any clues assisting the investigation.
The motive behind the abduction remains unclear. Preliminary assessments do not support theories involving robbery, home invasion, or ransom-driven kidnapping. The investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances.
For a second consecutive day, coverage of Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance opening the “Today” show marked the event, although Savannah Guthrie was absent from the anchor desk. Sheriff Nanos stated that Savannah Guthrie is currently in Arizona. A Tucson native, she graduated from the University of Arizona and formerly worked as a reporter and anchor at the KVOA television station in Tucson.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen Saturday evening at her home in the Tucson area, where she lived independently. Reports that she was missing emerged on Sunday when a church member alerted a family contact about her absence, prompting a search and subsequent 911 notification. Due to her limited mobility, law enforcement does not believe she left voluntarily. Officials confirm she is of sound mind.
Investigators have collected samples from the scene intended to develop at least a partial DNA profile. Search teams utilized drones and canine units, supported by volunteers and Border Patrol officers, while the homicide division also became engaged. Additionally, the FBI has offered assistance according to sheriff’s department spokesperson Angelica Carrillo.
As of Monday morning, search teams were redirected, with the sheriff stating that the focus had shifted from a search mission to treating the area as a crime scene. Nevertheless, aerial reconnaissance continued, with a sheriff’s helicopter surveying the nearby desert region adjacent to Nancy Guthrie’s residence, located in the affluent Catalina Foothills neighborhood on Tucson’s northern edge. Her brick home, characterized by a gravel driveway and native desert flora including prickly pear and saguaro cactus, forms the backdrop of the case.
Savannah Guthrie’s family roots in Tucson stretch back to the 1970s. She is the youngest of three siblings and credits her mother for maintaining family cohesion following the untimely death of her father at age 49 due to a heart attack, when Savannah was 16 years old. The loss left the family of five to adjust to life as a family of four, with Nancy Guthrie raising her children alone through significant adversity.
Throughout Savannah Guthrie’s career, her mother has been a frequent presence on the “Today” show, praised by her daughter for her resilience and unwavering faith. On Nancy’s 80th birthday in 2022, Savannah highlighted her mother’s grit and determination, noting her sacrifices and steadfast support as foundational to her own achievements.