Nancy Guthrie: What happened to Savannah Guthrie’s mother? Inside her shocking disappearance

A deeply emotional plea from “TODAY” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie has intensified national attention on the mysterious disappearance of her mother, 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, who authorities believe may have been abducted from her Arizona home.

In a tearful video shared on Instagram, Savannah Guthrie appeared alongside her siblings, addressing whoever may be holding their mother and urging them to make contact. Reading from prepared remarks, Guthrie said the family is aware of reports claiming ransom messages were sent to media outlets, but stressed that they need proof of life before engaging further.

“We are doing everything we can,” Guthrie said. “But in a world where voices and images can be manipulated, we need to know—without question—that she is alive and that you have her. We are ready to listen.”

A Family’s Emotional Appeal

Flanked by her sister Annie and brother Camron, Guthrie thanked the public for the outpouring of prayers and support. She described her mother as a woman of deep faith, warmth, and resilience—someone whose life has been defined by kindness, humor, and devotion to family.

Nancy Guthrie, she explained, is a loving grandmother who treasures time with her grandchildren and thrives on connection and conversation. But her physical condition makes the situation especially urgent. Savannah Guthrie revealed that her mother lives with chronic pain, requires daily medication, and is currently without access to the treatment she depends on.

“She needs her medicine to survive,” Guthrie said, adding that her mother’s health and heart are fragile.

In the closing moments of the video, she addressed her mother directly, calling her “strong,” “loved,” and “God’s precious daughter,” a message that resonated deeply with viewers across the country.

What Authorities Know So Far

Nancy Guthrie was reported missing Sunday afternoon after failing to appear at church. Family members last saw her the night before, around 9:45 p.m., when she was dropped off at her home outside Tucson, Arizona.

According to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, investigators believe she may have been taken during the night. Officials have not ruled out kidnapping or abduction, and state and federal agencies—including the FBI—are actively involved in the case.

Authorities have confirmed that no suspect or person of interest has been identified, and they say there is currently no evidence suggesting the incident was targeted. Investigators returned to Guthrie’s home midweek to conduct additional follow-up in the neighborhood.

Disturbing Clues and Growing Concern

Sources familiar with the investigation say law enforcement is examining what appears to be blood found outside the home. Officials are also looking into the fact that Guthrie’s pacemaker reportedly disconnected from its monitoring application early Sunday morning.

Sheriff Chris Nanos has emphasized that while Guthrie has limited mobility, she does not suffer from cognitive impairment. “She is sharp as a tack,” he told reporters, pushing back against any suggestion that her disappearance could be related to dementia.

“We have nothing else to go on but the belief that she is alive,” Nanos said. “And we want to save her.”

National Spotlight and Political Response

As the case has unfolded, the quiet Tucson neighborhood where Nancy Guthrie lived has become the focus of intense national scrutiny. Media crews, drones, and curious onlookers have flooded the area, drawn by the unsettling mix of mystery and celebrity.

President Donald Trump weighed in Wednesday night, saying he spoke directly with Savannah Guthrie and pledged full federal support. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he had directed all federal law enforcement resources to assist local authorities.

“We are deploying all resources to get her mother home safely,” he wrote.

Savannah Guthrie’s former “TODAY” co-host Hoda Kotb also publicly expressed her support, saying she was praying for Nancy ahead of a vigil held in New York.

A Case That Has Captivated the Nation

The disappearance has sparked comparisons to historic abduction cases involving prominent families, but with distinctly modern elements—security cameras, digital health devices, social media appeals, and cryptocurrency-linked ransom claims.

Despite the attention, investigators stress that much remains unknown. For now, the Guthrie family’s message is simple: they are listening, they are waiting, and they want Nancy Guthrie home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Nancy Guthrie?
Nancy Guthrie is the 84-year-old mother of “TODAY” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie.

When was Nancy Guthrie last seen?
She was last seen around 9:45 p.m. Saturday night when family members dropped her off at her home.

Do authorities believe this was a kidnapping?
Yes. Investigators say she may have been abducted overnight, though no suspect has been identified.

Are federal authorities involved?
Yes. The FBI and other federal agencies are assisting local law enforcement.

Has a ransom demand been confirmed?
Authorities are aware of reported ransom messages but have not confirmed their authenticity.