Investigators remain without evidence confirming the survival of Nancy Guthrie, mother of television host Savannah Guthrie, as the search for the 84-year-old continues four days after she was reported missing in Tucson, Arizona. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos expressed optimism that Nancy Guthrie is "still out there," though he acknowledged a lack of definitive proof about her status.
Since Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, law enforcement officials have neither identified suspects nor persons of interest, intensifying efforts to locate her. DNA analysis confirmed that blood discovered on the porch of her Tucson residence matched hers, supporting the belief that she was taken against her will over the past weekend.
"Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home," Sheriff Nanos stated during a media briefing on Thursday, five days following her reported absence. Nonetheless, he stressed that proof of her safety has yet to be established.
Authorities disclosed an expanded account of events shortly after Guthrie was last seen on Saturday evening. Additionally, they are treating a ransom note, sent to several news organizations, with seriousness. The note demands monetary payment and specifies two deadlines: one on Thursday evening and another on the subsequent Monday should the initial deadline not be met, according to Heith Janke, FBI chief in Phoenix. The note contained specific information about a floodlight at Guthrie's residence and references to an Apple watch, suggesting knowledge only the abductor would possess.
"To anyone who may be involved, do the right thing. This is an 84-year-old grandma," Janke appealed.
While authorities maintain that decisions regarding ransom demands rest with the family, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings issued a public message the day prior, indicating their willingness to negotiate but requesting proof of their mother's survival. No public response has emerged from the purported kidnappers since.
Chronology of Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie spent the evening of Saturday engaging in dinner and games with family before being dropped off at her home, located in an affluent neighborhood of Tucson. Approximately four hours later, just before 2 a.m. on Sunday, the home’s doorbell camera was disconnected. However, Guthrie did not have a current subscription service with the camera company, preventing recovery of video footage.
Shortly afterward, software detected motion near the home, though authorities indicated this might have been caused by an animal. At 2:28 a.m., Guthrie’s pacemaker app disconnected from her phone, heightening concerns.
Search Efforts and Medical Considerations
Guthrie was reported missing late Sunday morning after failing to attend church. Though capable of driving and mentally sharp, she experiences difficulty walking short distances and depends on daily medication critical to her health. Medical records mention high blood pressure and heart conditions, underscoring the urgency of the search, which has included extensive examination of her home and vicinity as recently as Wednesday.
Ransom Notes and Public Appeals
Multiple news organizations have received ransom notes allegedly linked to Nancy Guthrie’s abduction and have forwarded these documents to officials. One such note resulted in an arrest when it was deemed a hoax. However, other communications include details convincing enough to suggest legitimacy. Mary Coleman, a Tucson news anchor, remarked that the information contained in one email indicated it might not be a fabrication.
In a poignant public statement, Savannah Guthrie, alongside her siblings Annie and Camron, implored whoever was holding their mother to provide evidence of her condition and engage with the family. "We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us," Savannah Guthrie said, visibly emotional. Annie Guthrie added, "Mamma, If you’re listening, we need you to come home. We miss you."
The investigation continues amidst these developments, with law enforcement pursuing all leads as the community watches closely for any sign of Nancy Guthrie's safe return.