Search Intensifies for Missing Mother of NBC's Savannah Guthrie Amid Ransom Demands
Authorities are intensifying their search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC "Today" show anchor Savannah Guthrie, who has been missing for over a week. Nancy was last seen on the night of January 31 when her daughter Annie and son-in-law dropped her off at her Tucson home. The following morning, she failed to attend church, prompting relatives to check on her around noon on February 1, only to discover she was missing.
Critical Evidence and Health Concerns
Investigators have revealed that Nancy Guthrie's video doorbell and pacemaker app disconnected overnight. While the doorbell detected movement around 2 a.m., no recorded footage was saved. Blood found on the front steps of her home has been confirmed to be hers, raising alarm. Authorities emphasize that Nancy is in poor health and without vital medication, which she needs to survive and avoid suffering.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated on February 5, "We believe Nancy is still out there." Savannah Guthrie echoed these concerns in a family video, saying, "She lives in constant pain. She is without any medicine. She needs it to survive. She needs it not to suffer."
Family Appeals and Ransom Notes
Savannah Guthrie has posted multiple videos appealing for her mother's safe return. In a February 4 video, she said, "As a family, we are doing everything that we can. We are ready to talk. However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated. 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."
In a follow-up video on February 7, Savannah reiterated the family's plea: "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."
The FBI is investigating multiple ransom notes sent to media outlets, including KOLD and TMZ, which allegedly demand millions in Bitcoin. These notes included specific details about Nancy Guthrie's Apple Watch and clothing from the night of her disappearance, with deadlines set for February 5 and February 9.
Investigation and Reward
Law enforcement continues to search the area around Nancy Guthrie's home, including towing an SUV off the property on February 6 and placing evidence markers. The FBI has offered up to $50,000 for information leading to her safe return or the arrest and conviction of those responsible. No suspects have been publicly identified in connection with her disappearance.
However, after police debunked an "imposter" ransom demand, a man in Southern California, Derrick Callella, was arrested on February 5 on federal charges related to transmitting a false ransom demand.
Public Assistance and Unknown Motive
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact 911 or the Pima County Sheriff's Department at 520-351-4900. Sheriff Nanos noted that investigators have not determined why Nancy Guthrie may have been targeted, stating on February 5, "We'll know more as we go on what that motive is, but right now, my guesswork is as good as yours."
The case remains active as the community and law enforcement work together to bring Nancy Guthrie home safely.
