Tucson, Arizona – The family of Nancy Guthrie, mother of US Today show host Savannah Guthrie, is facing what they describe as an “hour of desperation” as a purported ransom deadline passed on Monday evening local time, with no confirmed reports of her safe return. The 84-year-old was last seen at her home outside Tucson on , and reported missing the following day after failing to attend church services.
Savannah Guthrie released a video plea earlier on Tuesday, , urging anyone with information to come forward. While she did not mention the specific ransom deadline, she expressed the family’s unwavering belief that her mother is still alive and appealing for public assistance. “She was taken and we don’t know where and we need your help,” Guthrie said in the video posted to Instagram. “No matter where you are, even if you’re far from Tucson, if you see anything, if you hear anything.”
The disappearance has garnered national attention, with even former US President Donald Trump reportedly speaking with Savannah Guthrie last week. Online communities have also become heavily involved, with “armchair detectives” flooding social media with tips, theories, and rumours, according to reports.
Law enforcement officials have been cautious in their public statements, declining to confirm the authenticity of alleged ransom letters received by multiple press outlets. However, they have stated that all leads are being investigated thoroughly. At least one letter reportedly contained monetary demands and set a deadline for payment, which initially passed on , followed by a second deadline on Monday evening.
Authorities have expressed growing concern for Nancy Guthrie’s health, noting that she requires daily medication. She is reported to have a pacemaker and a history of high blood pressure and heart issues, according to dispatcher audio broadcast on broadcastify.com. This medical vulnerability adds urgency to the search efforts.
Investigators have revisited Nancy Guthrie’s neighbourhood multiple times over the weekend, intensifying their presence ahead of the Monday deadline. A Pima County Sheriff’s vehicle has remained stationed outside her home, and detectives have been actively pursuing leads at various locations. On Saturday, investigators were seen at the home of Guthrie’s daughter, Annie Guthrie, located approximately 6 kilometres from her mother’s residence. Sunday saw investigators searching an underground tank behind Nancy Guthrie’s property.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirmed on Sunday that investigators have not yet identified any suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles connected to the case. DNA testing confirmed the presence of Nancy Guthrie’s blood on her front porch, and her doorbell camera was found to have been disconnected in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The FBI has stated it is not currently aware of any ongoing communication between the Guthrie family and suspected kidnappers, according to recent reports. This lack of communication raises further questions about the credibility of the ransom demands and the motives behind the abduction.
Despite the uncertainty, the Guthrie family remains resolute in their determination to secure their mother’s safe return. Savannah Guthrie reiterated the family’s willingness to meet the demands of the alleged abductors, stating in a video released on Saturday, “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 case continues to unfold, with law enforcement agencies working diligently to gather information and pursue all available leads. The situation remains fluid, and the family’s plea for assistance underscores the desperate hope for a swift and safe resolution.
