Search Intensifies for Savannah Guthrie’s Missing Mother in Tucson

TUCSON, Ariz. – Authorities in Tucson, Arizona, are conducting an ongoing investigation to locate Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie, who went missing from her home last Saturday night. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has stated that a crime is believed to have occurred.

Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her Tucson residence around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday. Sheriff Chris Nanos indicated on Monday that there are criminal elements involved in her disappearance. According to a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office, there is a possibility that she was kidnapped or abducted.

“Sheriff [Chris] Nanos has stated that he believes that a crime has been committed,” said a spokesperson. “Investigators believe she was taken from her home against her will, which might involve kidnapping or abduction.”

The case gained attention when Savannah Guthrie expressed concern for her mother. In an image from 2015, the Australian-born presenter is seen beside Nancy Guthrie during a live broadcast of NBC’s “Today Show” from Sydney.

Blood traces were reportedly found in Nancy’s home, with sources pointing to “blood drops” leading from the entryway to the driveway, as per law enforcement. During a recent interview, Sheriff Nanos confirmed Nancy was forcibly removed from her home, though it’s not clear if the perpetrator is known or a stranger.

In a statement to NBC’s “Today,” Savannah expressed gratitude for public support and emphasized their focus on her mother’s safe return.

Here is a timeline of the events:

Saturday Night

Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home around 9:45 p.m. Near East Skyline Drive and North Campbell Avenue. She was dropped off by her children, according to Sheriff Nanos.

Sunday Morning

Nancy missed her church service, prompting concern from a church member and family. The family checked her home around 11 a.m. but found nothing.

Sunday Noon

Her family called 911. Officials noticed blood droplets outside her home leading towards the driveway.

Sunday Night

By 8:55 p.m., extensive search and rescue operations, including helicopters and drones, were launched for the elderly woman. Sheriff Nanos mentioned finding concerning evidence at Nancy’s home.

“She’s not of good physical health, making this a serious concern,” Nanos pointed out, explaining the extraordinary measures being taken in the investigation.

Monday Morning

Sheriff Nanos held a news conference, revealing that Nancy didn’t leave voluntarily, and highlighted the ongoing crime scene investigation. Search efforts were put on pause to let emergency teams rest.

“We are confident a crime has occurred. She is of sound mind but limited mobility, and requires medication every 24 hours,” explained Nanos.

With time being critical, especially due to Nancy’s health conditions, the authorities urge the public for any leads. The Pima County Sheriff’s Office offers a reward up to $2,500 for pertinent information. Anyone with details is encouraged to contact them at 520-351-4900.