The search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, continues in Arizona, entering its second week. Authorities are investigating the case as a potential kidnapping, with new developments emerging daily as detectives pursue multiple leads.
On Sunday, Savannah Guthrie released a video appeal alongside her siblings, directly addressing potential abductors. She stated the family was prepared to meet ransom demands, saying, “we received your message” and “This represents the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.” The plea underscores the family’s desperation and willingness to comply with demands for her safe return.
According to an FBI spokesman, the message referenced in Guthrie’s statement was received by Tucson-based television station KOLD on Friday. Details of the message’s contents have not been publicly released, as the FBI continues its review to assess its credibility and potential leads. The station has cooperated with authorities, withholding specifics to avoid compromising the investigation.
Law enforcement activity has been concentrated around Nancy Guthrie’s home outside Tucson. On Sunday, two marked Pima County Sheriff’s vehicles and a third unidentified vehicle were observed at the residence. At least two individuals entered the property and spent over 20 minutes inside before departing without making any public statements. This activity is part of ongoing follow-up work at multiple locations, according to a statement released by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.
Investigators have yet to identify any suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles directly linked to the disappearance. The Sheriff’s Department confirmed this in a media email, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the investigation and the lack of concrete leads at this stage. The lack of identified suspects adds to the complexity of the case and the urgency of the search.
The investigation has revealed crucial physical evidence. DNA testing confirmed the presence of Nancy Guthrie’s blood on her front porch, according to Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos. This discovery suggests a potential struggle or violent encounter at the residence, raising concerns about her well-being. The presence of blood evidence significantly escalated the seriousness of the case.
Multiple news outlets have reportedly received alleged ransom letters in the past week. At least one of these letters included specific monetary demands and established deadlines for payment – Thursday evening and Monday evening. While authorities have not confirmed the authenticity of these letters, they are treating all tips and information with the utmost seriousness. The proliferation of potential ransom notes complicates the investigation, requiring careful analysis to distinguish credible threats from false leads.
The disappearance has garnered significant national attention, fueled by Guthrie’s prominent position as a television journalist. Neighbors have shown their support, leaving lit candles and a sign expressing solidarity with the family outside Nancy Guthrie’s home. The case has resonated with the public, highlighting the vulnerability of elderly individuals and the emotional toll of such incidents.
The case has also reached the highest levels of government. US President Donald Trump reportedly spoke with Savannah Guthrie last week, offering his support and expressing confidence in the investigation. Trump publicly stated that there were “clues” in the case that he considered “very strong,” though he did not elaborate on the nature of those clues.
Authorities have expressed growing concern for Nancy Guthrie’s health, noting that she requires daily medication. Dispatcher audio from broadcastify.com indicates she has a pacemaker and a history of high blood pressure and heart issues. Her medical needs underscore the urgency of locating her quickly to ensure she receives the necessary care. The potential health consequences of her disappearance add another layer of complexity to the situation.
Saturday’s video appeal from Savannah Guthrie marked the third public plea the family has made this week. The repeated appeals demonstrate their unwavering commitment to securing her safe return and their willingness to cooperate with any demands made by potential abductors. The family’s public displays of desperation are a testament to their deep concern for Nancy Guthrie’s well-being.
