Executive summary: Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of ‘Today’ show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has vanished from her home in Tucson, Arizona, with law enforcement treating her disappearance as a potential abduction. Authorities believe she was taken while sleeping, sparking a multi-agency investigation and a public plea for information.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen by family members on the evening of Saturday, January 31, 2026, at her residence in the Catalina Foothills area outside Tucson. When she failed to attend church the following morning, her children went to her home, searched for her, and contacted the Pima County Sheriff’s Department around noon on Sunday. Investigators arriving at the scene found circumstances they described as ‘suspicious in nature,’ leading them to classify the home as a crime scene.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that evidence suggests Guthrie did not leave voluntarily. ‘I believe she was abducted, yes,’ Nanos told CBS News, noting her limited mobility due to physical ailments. At 84, Guthrie requires daily medication, and authorities emphasized that the clock is ticking, as missing doses could be fatal. Despite her mobility issues, she is cognitively sharp, with the family clarifying she did not wander off.
The initial search involved drones, helicopters, and heat sensors operated by search and rescue teams through Sunday night. However, by Monday, the focus shifted entirely to a criminal investigation. ‘Right now we don’t see this as a search mission so much as we do a crime scene,’ Sheriff Nanos explained during a press briefing. The FBI has joined the probe, assisting with resources and expertise.
Investigators are examining security camera footage from Guthrie’s home, her cellphone, and other electronic devices for clues. They are also reviewing data from license-plate readers and urging neighbors to check their home surveillance videos, particularly between 1:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. on Sunday. Sheriff Nanos encouraged the public to report any unusual activity, such as unfamiliar vehicles or individuals in the area during that time frame.
Savannah Guthrie has publicly addressed her mother’s disappearance, expressing gratitude for the support and asking for prayers. In a statement read on the ‘Today’ show, she said, ‘Right now, our focus remains on the safe return of our dear mom.’ She later posted on Instagram, urging followers to ‘raise your prayers with us’ and adding, ‘Bring her home.’ The family is cooperating fully with law enforcement.
Authorities have not identified a motive or confirmed if the abduction was targeted. Sheriff Nanos acknowledged that Guthrie’s connection to a high-profile media personality could be a factor but said there is no current evidence of threats against her. The investigation is exploring all angles, including the possibility of stalking or harassment, but no immediate danger to the public is perceived.
The case has drawn national attention due to Savannah Guthrie’s prominence, amplifying calls for tips and information. Law enforcement continues to process evidence from the home, looking for signs of struggle or items out of place that might indicate forced entry. As the investigation progresses, authorities remain hopeful that public assistance will lead to breakthroughs.
With Nancy Guthrie’s health at risk due to her medication needs, the urgency of the situation is paramount. Investigators are working around the clock, following leads and analyzing digital footprints. The community has rallied in support, and the search for answers continues, with authorities committed to resolving the mystery and ensuring her safe return.
