The search for Today show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother, Nancy Guthrie, took a chilling turn this week when Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed that the blood found on her porch belonged to the 84-year-old woman.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Nanos emphasized that while the blood confirms Nancy was at the scene, authorities still have no suspects and no clear leads.
Nancy’s Abduction Sparks Federal Involvement
Nancy was reportedly abducted from her $1 million home in Tucson, Arizona, late on January 31.
The case quickly drew national attention, prompting FBI Director Kash Patel to fly to Tucson personally to assist with the investigation.
President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday evening that he had ordered “all federal law enforcement” to provide immediate support, signaling the urgency surrounding the case.
Family Pleads for Proof of Life
Despite the intensive search, Nancy’s captors remain unidentified.
Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have publicly pleaded for proof of life, worried about their mother’s need for vital daily medication.
“We have nothing else to go on but the belief that she is here,” Sheriff Nanos said in an interview with NBC.
“She’s present. She’s alive, and we want to save her.”
Signs of Forced Entry at Catalina Foothills Home
Neighbors say Nancy had always been somewhat exposed due to her family connections, raising concerns about her vulnerability.
She disappeared after having dinner with her daughter Annie and was reported missing when she failed to attend church the next morning.
Police noted signs of forced entry at her home, including the removal of her doorbell camera, and have been searching the surrounding wooded and hilly terrain.
FBI Appeals to Captors to Do the Right Thing
At Thursday’s press briefing, FBI Special Agent Heith Janke addressed the abductors directly.
“This is an 84‑year‑old grandma that needs vital medication for her well-being,” he said.
“You still have the time to do the right thing before this becomes a worse, much worse scenario for you. Please return Nancy home.”
Arrest Made in Fake Ransom Attempt
Authorities also revealed that one individual had been arrested for sending a fraudulent ransom demand.
“We will investigate and ensure anyone attempting to exploit this situation is held accountable,” Janke stressed.
The FBI has additionally offered a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to Nancy’s recovery or the arrest of her kidnapper.
Investigators Trace Nancy’s Movements
Sheriff Nanos confirmed that investigators had traced Nancy’s movements on the night she vanished, including speaking with an Uber driver who transported her to her daughter’s home for dinner.
Every detail is being reviewed to piece together her last known whereabouts.
Community and Family Grapple with the Crisis
Sheriff Nanos acknowledged the emotional toll on the Guthrie family.
“The family, you know, they just hurt,” he said.
“Understandably so, and so I really want you to know this entire team here and our community are hurting with you. We really just want mom back.”
No Suspects Yet, Public Tips Encouraged
Despite the heightened search, no suspects have been identified.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department at 520-351-4900, or submit anonymous tips online at 88crime.org.
Support and Solidarity from the Today Show
Savannah Guthrie has been absent from the Today show since her mother went missing.
Her co-hosts have reflected on the outpouring of support the family has received from both Tucson residents and viewers nationwide.
Sheinelle Jones noted how collective support can feel like a shared strength in times of crisis, while Craig Melvin highlighted the nationwide messages of prayers and concern.
Who is Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos
Leading the investigation, Sheriff Nanos has been with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department since 1984, rising from corrections officer to the county’s top law enforcement official.
Elected sheriff in 2020, he oversees a department of 1,500 employees and 400 volunteers, handling a multi-million-dollar budget while coordinating complex investigations like Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance.
NBC Investigates Potential Risk from Public Appearance
NBC is reportedly reviewing recent footage of Nancy’s appearance on the Today show just three months ago.
According to sources, the feature may have inadvertently increased her exposure, though authorities have not confirmed this as a factor in her abduction.
The case remains ongoing, and authorities continue to urge the public to provide any tips that could help bring Nancy safely home.
