The Deepening Mystery of Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance
The case of missing 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of prominent television anchor Savannah Guthrie, has escalated into a complex and troubling mystery as she remains unlocated for the tenth consecutive day on February 10. What began as a simple missed appointment has transformed into a full-scale investigation involving local authorities and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with disturbing details emerging daily.
Initial Disappearance and Timeline of Events
The Nancy Guthrie missing case was officially reported on January 31 when she failed to appear for her regular Sunday virtual church service gathering with friends. This absence immediately raised alarms among her social circle, who promptly contacted the Guthrie family.
January 31 - The Last Confirmed Sighting: Nancy Guthrie had enjoyed dinner with her daughters earlier that evening. She traveled via Uber to her daughter Annie's residence and was subsequently driven back to her own home by son-in-law Tommaso Cioni at approximately 9:48 PM. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos later stated, "It is that time we assume that Nancy's home and probably going to bed."
February 1 - The Discovery: Critical digital evidence emerged showing Nancy Guthrie's doorbell camera was disconnected around 1:47 AM. Surveillance software detected movement at the property, and her pacemaker disconnected from her phone at 2:28 AM. When friends reported her absence from the virtual church service, police were notified. By 12:15 PM, authorities officially declared her missing. Forensic analysis confirmed blood found on her front porch belonged to Nancy Guthrie.
Investigation Intensifies with Ransom Demands
February 2 - Sheriff Declares Crime Scene: Sheriff Chris Nanos addressed reporters, stating investigators found "some things at the home that were concerning to us. We believe now after we've processed that crime scene that we do in fact have a crime scene, that we do in fact have a crime, and we're asking the community's help." He later told CBS News, "I believe she was abducted, yes. She didn't walk from there. She didn't go willingly."
February 3 - First Ransom Notes Surface: Multiple media outlets including TMZ and KOLD received ransom letters demanding millions of dollars in bitcoin for Nancy Guthrie's safe return, with a deadline of 5 PM on February 5. Sheriff Nanos confirmed, "We are aware of reports circulating about possible ransom note(s) regarding the investigation into Nancy Guthrie. We are taking all tips and leads very seriously. Anything that comes in, goes directly to our detectives who are coordinating with the FBI."
Family Appeals and Continued Developments
February 4 - Savannah Guthrie's Emotional Video: In a desperate public appeal, Savannah Guthrie released a video message directed at potential abductors. "We need to know without a doubt that she's alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us," she pleaded. She emphasized her mother's medical vulnerability, noting Nancy "lives in constant pain" and was without necessary medication.
February 5 - Reward Announced: Camron Guthrie echoed the family's plea for communication, while investigators announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy's recovery.
February 6 - Second Ransom Note: A second ransom demand emerged, reportedly containing sensitive information and requesting $6 million without a specified deadline. The Sheriff's office stated, "Investigators are actively inspecting the information provided in the message for its authenticity."
February 7 - Family Offers Payment: Savannah Guthrie publicly declared the family's willingness to pay for her mother's safe return in another emotional video. "We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay."
Ongoing Search Without Resolution
February 8 - Investigators Return: Authorities revisited Nancy Guthrie's residence, conducting thorough examinations including inspection of the septic tank.
February 9 - No Proof of Life: Savannah Guthrie renewed her plea for public assistance while the FBI confirmed they were "not aware of any continued communication between the Guthrie family and suspected kidnappers." Crucially, no proof of life has surfaced since Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31.
As the investigation enters its second week, the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie remains shrouded in uncertainty, with her family maintaining hope while authorities pursue all leads in this increasingly complex case.