TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Investigators remain hopeful about finding Nancy Guthrie, the missing mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed at a press conference that DNA tests revealed blood discovered on Nancy’s porch belonged to her. “Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home,” Nanos stated, emphasizing the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement just days after she was reported missing.
Savannah Guthrie, in a poignant social media video, shared her family’s desperate plea for proof of her mother’s safety. At 84, Nancy is believed to have been taken from her Tucson home against her will. “We are ready to talk. However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated,” Savannah said, underscoring the urgency for verification. Her family heard rumors of a ransom letter but sought undeniable evidence that Nancy is alive.
Last seen Saturday evening, Nancy was dropped off at her home post-dinner with family before being reported missing approximately 14 hours later when she failed to attend church. Local media outlets have reported receiving several suspicious ransom notes that were promptly handed over to investigators, raising concerns about the veracity of the claims. One note sent to KOLD-TV included details only relevant to someone familiar with Nancy, compelling anchor Mary Coleman to consider it a credible threat.
After conducting an extensive search of her home on Wednesday, investigators returned to the property to gather more evidence. The sheriff’s department has declined to comment on the family’s emotional video plea while continuing to treat the ransom notes with seriousness. Savannah, visibly shaken, described her mother as a “kind, faithful, loyal, fiercely loving woman of goodness and light.” She called out to Nancy directly in the video, urging her to stay strong and reassuring her of the love and prayers from family.
Sitting alongside her siblings, Annie and Camron, they all expressed their longing for Nancy’s safe return. “Mamma, if you’re listening, we need you to come home. We miss you,” Annie added, highlighting the deep emotional toll this situation has taken on the family.
Local authorities have reported signs of forced entry at Nancy’s residence, which combined with her limited mobility, raises concerns about her ability to leave on her own. Tracking her whereabouts has proven challenging due to the rugged desert terrain of the Catalina Foothills, complicating search efforts. Experts affirm that certain areas are so dense with vegetation that they are nearly impossible to navigate.
In a show of solidarity, a vigil was held at a Tucson church, where community members gathered to pray and light candles for Nancy’s safe return. “We’re all holding our breath,” shared Jeremy Thacker, a colleague of Savannah’s who has experienced personal loss and expressed heartbreak over the ongoing situation.
President Donald Trump has vowed federal assistance in the search, having spoken personally with Savannah. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates as they develop. As the hunt for Nancy Guthrie continues, her family and the broader community hold on to hope for her return.
This story is developing, and additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/savannah-guthries-missing-mother-is-still-out-there-sheriff-says-11770316704606.html
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Publish Date: 2026-02-06 00:08:00
