Desperate Search for Savannah Guthrie’s Missing Mother Enters Fifth Day Amid Ransom Note Probes
By Perplexity News Staff
February 5, 2026
The search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has intensified into its fifth day as authorities investigate potential ransom notes and blood evidence discovered at her Arizona home[1][2][5]. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos described the scene as a “crime scene,” believing Guthrie was abducted from her sleep in the middle of the night, with her essential items—cellphone, wallet, car, and critical medication—left behind[1][3][5].
Timeline of Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie was last seen Saturday night, January 31, 2026, when family members dropped her off at her ranch-style home in the Catalina Foothills community north of Tucson[1][2][5]. The elderly woman, who lives alone and suffers from physical ailments limiting her mobility but remains cognitively sharp, failed to attend church services the next morning, prompting family to check on her around noon Sunday[1][3][5].
Upon arrival, relatives found the home in disarray under “suspicious and concerning circumstances,” with no sign of Guthrie but indications she could not have left voluntarily due to her health needs[1][3]. Investigators quickly classified the case as a possible kidnapping, deploying homicide detectives and processing the scene for DNA evidence, including drops of blood found inside[1].
Ransom Notes Emerge as Key Leads
Complicating the investigation, multiple alleged ransom notes have surfaced. A local Arizona news station, ABC affiliate KGUN, received one on Monday containing specific details about Guthrie’s home and what she was wearing that night, which it forwarded to law enforcement without publicizing[3][5]. Pima County Sheriff Nanos confirmed to CBS News that investigators are taking the note seriously, with the FBI reviewing it and even sharing it with Savannah Guthrie, though its legitimacy remains unconfirmed[3].
TMZ reported receiving another note Tuesday demanding millions in Bitcoin to a specific wallet address, which they passed to the sheriff’s department[4]. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department acknowledged on X (formerly Twitter) that they are aware of circulating reports on possible ransom notes, coordinating with the FBI on all tips[4]. “Every tool we have, we will use,” Nanos stated, appealing directly to potential abductors[1].
Family’s Emotional Plea and Health Concerns
Savannah Guthrie, alongside siblings Annie Guthrie and Camron Guthrie, released a heartfelt video plea on social media Wednesday, with Savannah saying, “Everyone is looking for you, Mommy, everywhere. We will not rest. Your children will not rest until we are together again.”[5][6]. The family has also referenced Annie’s husband, Tommaso Cioni, amid public interest[2].
Time is critical: Guthrie requires daily medication, and Nanos warned, “The clock is literally ticking… could be fatal if she doesn’t get those meds.”[3]. As of Thursday, no suspects or persons of interest have been named, and questions linger on whether she was targeted due to her daughter’s fame, though officials have not speculated[5].
Investigation Updates and Federal Involvement
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department planned a briefing at 1 p.m. ET Thursday to update on the case[5]. Forensic teams have completed processing the home, with some DNA results back but no identifiable leads yet[1]. The FBI is assisting, particularly on ransom-related matters, while local authorities lead[1][4].
President Trump announced federal resources are being sent to Arizona to aid the search, as reported in NBC4 coverage[6]. Investigators continue canvassing for surveillance footage, phone data, witness reports, and post-disappearance sightings, amid concerns over unverified online claims muddying tips[2].
Public Urged to Assist
Authorities emphasize the public’s role: “Anyone with information is urged to call 911 or the Pima County Sheriff’s Department at 520-351-4900.”[5]. As the search presses on, the Guthrie family and law enforcement remain vigilant, holding out hope for Nancy’s safe return amid a web of unanswered questions.