FBI Intensifies Search for Missing 84-Year-Old Nancy Guthrie Amid Ransom Demands
The Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed on Monday that it has no knowledge of any ongoing communication between the family of Savannah Guthrie and the suspected kidnappers of her mother, Nancy Guthrie. This development comes more than a week after the 84-year-old woman vanished from her home just outside Tucson, Arizona.
Desperate Pleas and Ransom Deadlines
In a heartfelt video released on Monday, Savannah Guthrie, the co-host of NBC's "Today" show, expressed that her family has reached "an hour of desperation." The emotional appeal was made just hours before a purported ransom deadline set by her mother's abductors was due to expire. Although Guthrie did not explicitly mention the deadline in her video, she emphasized that her family continues to believe Nancy is alive and can feel the prayers being offered nationwide.
"She was taken and we don't know where, and we need your help," Guthrie stated in the Instagram video. "No matter where you are, even if you're far from Tucson, if you see anything, if you hear anything." Her plea underscores the widespread concern that has gripped the country, drawing attention from figures as prominent as former President Donald Trump, who spoke with Guthrie last week, to countless online sleuths flooding social media with tips and theories.
FBI's Public Appeal and Reward
Connor Hagan, an FBI spokesperson, revealed that the agency has still not identified any suspects or persons of interest in the mysterious disappearance. In response, the FBI has launched a public assistance campaign, utilizing digital billboards across major cities in Texas, California, Arizona, and New Mexico. A substantial reward of $50,000 is being offered for information leading to Nancy Guthrie's safe return or the resolution of the case.
Over the past week, multiple news outlets have received alleged ransom letters. At least one of these letters included monetary demands and established deadlines for payment. The first deadline lapsed last Thursday, followed by a second one set for Monday evening. Law enforcement officials have cautiously avoided confirming the credibility of these letters but assured that all tips are being thoroughly investigated.
Growing Health Concerns and Investigation Details
Authorities are increasingly worried about Nancy Guthrie's health, as she requires daily medication. According to sheriff's dispatcher audio available on broadcastify.com, she has a pacemaker and has historically managed high blood pressure and heart issues. This adds urgency to the search efforts, as her medical condition could deteriorate without proper care.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos provided critical details about the case, noting that DNA tests confirmed blood found on Guthrie's front porch matched hers. Additionally, her doorbell camera was disconnected in the early hours of Sunday morning, suggesting foul play. Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home on January 31 and reported missing the following day after failing to attend church.
Ongoing Investigative Efforts
The Pima County Sheriff's Department reported that their tip lines have received thousands of calls, reflecting the public's engagement in the case. Detectives and agents conducted follow-up work in the neighborhood and other locations over the weekend, as part of the expanding investigation. In a statement on Monday, the department announced that work at Guthrie residences would continue on Tuesday, focusing on new leads and broadening the search.
"Investigators have not identified any suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles connected to this case," the department reiterated on Sunday. This lack of concrete leads has not deterred the intensive efforts, which included investigators searching daughter Annie Guthrie's home, located approximately 4 miles (6 kilometers) from Nancy's residence, on Saturday. On Sunday, an investigator was observed using a pole to examine an underground tank behind Nancy Guthrie's home.
Family's Hope and Determination
Despite the grim circumstances, Savannah Guthrie remains hopeful. "We believe that somehow, some way, she is feeling these prayers," she said on Monday, "and that God is lifting her even in this moment and in this darkest place." In a previous video on Saturday, she indicated the family's willingness to pay for her mother's safe return, stating, "This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay."
As the investigation presses forward, neighbors near Nancy Guthrie's home continue their daily routines, with a county sheriff's deputy stationed outside. The community and nation alike await breakthroughs in a case that has become a focal point of concern and speculation.
