Investigators Believe Missing Mother of 'Today' Host Is 'Still Out There'
In a tense update from Tucson, Arizona, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated on Thursday that investigators believe Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, is "still out there" and alive, despite no suspects being identified in her apparent kidnapping. The announcement came five days after she was reported missing, with authorities revealing that DNA tests confirmed blood found on her porch belonged to her.
"Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home," Sheriff Nanos emphasized during a news conference, underscoring the ongoing search efforts in the Catalina Foothills neighborhood where signs of forced entry were discovered at her home.
Family's Heart-Wrenching Plea for Proof of Life
Earlier, Savannah Guthrie made an emotional appeal in a video posted on social media, addressing her mother's kidnapper directly. Reading from a prepared statement, she expressed the family's readiness to talk but demanded undeniable proof that Nancy Guthrie is alive, citing concerns about manipulated voices and images in today's digital world.
"We are ready to talk. However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated," Savannah Guthrie said, her voice cracking with emotion. "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."
Flanked by her siblings Annie and Camron, she described her mother as a "kind, faithful, loyal, fiercely loving woman of goodness and light" who is funny, spunky, and clever. Annie Guthrie added, "Mamma, If you're listening, we need you to come home. We miss you."
Ransom Notes and Investigation Details
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on Saturday night after being dropped off at her Tucson home by family following dinner. She was reported missing about 14 hours later on Sunday when she failed to appear at church. Authorities have noted her limited mobility, high blood pressure, pacemaker, and heart issues, leading them to believe she did not leave on her own.
At least three media organizations have reported receiving purported ransom notes, which they handed over to investigators. KOLD-TV anchor Mary Coleman told CNN that a note emailed to their newsroom on Monday included specific details only the abductor would know, along with a dollar amount and deadline, suggesting it might not be a hoax.
The sheriff's department is taking these notes and other tips seriously but has declined to comment further, with spokesperson Kevin Adger stating they are not commenting on the family's video message. Investigators conducted a follow-up search at the home on Wednesday after earlier visits earlier in the week.
Community Support and Search Challenges
The case has drawn widespread attention, with a couple hundred people attending a vigil at a Tucson church, praying and placing lit candles on an altar. Jeremy Thacker, a former colleague of Savannah Guthrie, shared his heartbreak, noting his personal connection through shared experiences and describing Nancy Guthrie as sharp, grounded, and earnest.
Search efforts are complicated by the desert terrain of the neighborhood, which Jim Mason, a longtime commander of a search-and-rescue team in Maricopa County, described as dense with mesquite trees, cholla cactus, and brush that can impede visibility and movement. "Some of it is so thick you can't drive through it," he said.
In a show of support, former President Donald Trump posted on social media that he was directing federal authorities to assist where possible, following a conversation with Savannah Guthrie on Wednesday. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the investigation continues, with the Pima County Sheriff's office confirming no suspects or persons of interest have been identified yet.
