Recent developments have shed light on the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the elderly mother of well-known 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie. Authorities in Pima County have confirmed that the search for the 84-year-old is now being handled as a criminal investigation, prompted by concerning findings at her home.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos provided a detailed timeline of Nancy Guthrie's last known whereabouts during a recent press conference. She was last observed at her Tucson, Arizona residence, specifically near East Skyline Drive and North Campbell Avenue, at approximately 9:45 p.m. on January 31. Her children had visited her home that evening.
The alarm was raised the following day when a friend from church noticed Nancy's absence from morning service. Nancy Guthrie is a mother to Savannah, her elder brother Cameron, and younger sister Annie. The family initiated their own search before contacting law enforcement, arriving at the residence around 11 a.m. After realizing the gravity of the situation, they promptly contacted 911.
Detectives subsequently designated Nancy's home as a crime scene, citing "suspicious circumstances." Sheriff Nanos elaborated that certain elements discovered at the residence were "concerning," though he refrained from disclosing specific details. He emphasized, "She did not leave on her own, we know that."
Savannah Guthrie, who was notably absent from Monday's 'Today' broadcast, is now in Arizona with a security detail. Law enforcement officials have stated that there are no known specific threats to the journalist that are believed to be connected to her mother's disappearance. Sheriff Nanos praised the family's cooperation, remarking on their distress and commending Nancy Guthrie as "a great lady" based on accounts.
Representatives for the Pima County Sheriff's Department have yet to provide further comments or additional information. Following the initial call to authorities on Sunday, an extensive search operation was launched, deploying aircraft, drones, helicopters, and K-9 units from Border Patrol. Hospitals in the vicinity were also contacted, but Nancy Guthrie was not located. During the Monday press conference, Nanos announced a temporary halt to the on-the-ground search to allow personnel to recuperate, noting that the focus has shifted from a search mission to a criminal investigation.
Nanos further clarified that Nancy Guthrie's disappearance is not attributed to dementia, asserting that she is "as sharp as a tack" and the family wishes to dispel any notions that she simply wandered off. He also highlighted that Nancy suffers from "physical ailments" due to her age and relies on medication, stressing that her condition could worsen if her prescriptions are not taken within a 24-hour window.
In Savannah Guthrie's absence from the 'Today' show, Sheinelle Jones stepped in to co-anchor. Savannah conveyed a statement through her colleagues, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support and reaffirming the family's primary focus on ensuring her mother's safe return.
The unfolding events surrounding Nancy Guthrie's disappearance highlight a deeply distressing situation for Savannah Guthrie and her family. The shift from a missing person case to a criminal investigation underscores the serious nature of the circumstances, with authorities diligently working to uncover the truth. The ongoing efforts involve a dedicated team of law enforcement and specialized units, underscoring the commitment to resolving this perplexing case. The family's plea for privacy and prayers reflects their profound concern, as they navigate this challenging period while hoping for a swift and safe reunion with their beloved mother.