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TUCSON, Ariz. – The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, intensifies as the investigation enters its second week. Nancy was reported missing in Arizona, and authorities suspect she may have been kidnapped.
In a heartfelt appeal shared on social media Saturday, Savannah Guthrie addressed the suspected kidnappers directly, expressing the family’s readiness to negotiate for her mother’s safe return. Standing alongside her siblings, she stated, “We received your message. This is the only path to peace for us. It’s precious to us, and we are prepared to pay.”
The reference was made to a message received by the Tucson-based television station KOLD, as confirmed by an FBI spokesperson. However, the station has withheld specific details of the message pending the FBI’s ongoing investigation.
Authorities, led by Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, suspect foul play after DNA tests confirmed that blood found on Nancy Guthrie’s front porch belonged to her. Investigators believe she was taken against her will from her residence near Tucson last weekend.
Throughout the past week, several media outlets have reportedly received ransom letters. At least one of these communications included demands for money and set deadlines for Thursday and Monday evenings. While law enforcement has not verified the authenticity of these letters, they assure the public that every lead is being thoroughly pursued.
The sheriff and his staff did not respond to requests for updates Sunday morning.
A FBI spokesman said Sunday that the investigation was continuing.
The disappearance of the well-known TV host’s mother has fixated Americans over the past week. Candles remained lit early Sunday near Nancy Guthrie’s home, next to a sign expressing support for the family.
The White House said President Donald Trump called and spoke with Savannah Guthrie last week. The president told reporters on Friday that there are clues in the case “that I think are very strong.”
Authorities say they have growing concerns about Nancy Guthrie’s health because she needs daily medication. She is said to have a pacemaker and has dealt with high blood pressure and heart issues, according to sheriff’s dispatcher audio on broadcastify.com.
The video released Saturday was the third this week that pleaded with potential kidnappers.
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