Arizona Law Enforcement announced on February 2 that Nancy Guthrie, mother of “TODAY” show anchor Savannah Guthrie, has been reported missing and the case is now being treated as a criminal investigation.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, resides in Tucson, and was last seen by her family on Saturday night, between 9:30 and 9:45 p.m. on January 31. Her family reported her missing to the authorities on Sunday, February 1. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated in a press conference on Monday that “she did not leave on her own accord, we are very clear on that.”
Sheriff Nanos mentioned that they are no longer treating this as a simple missing person’s case but as a criminal investigation, with search and rescue personnel having been withdrawn.
“We do indeed have a crime scene, we do indeed have a criminal event,” said Sheriff Nanos without disclosing further details, only mentioning that investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from Nancy Guthrie’s home.
Nancy Guthrie’s health is fragile, and she requires daily medication. Sheriff Nanos urged the community to assist in the investigation, stating past successes with community help in solving difficult cases. He implored, “If you hear or see anything, please contact us. We don’t want any tragedy to happen.”
Nancy Guthrie is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes.
Sheriff Nanos also mentioned that Nancy Guthrie lives alone and employs household help. He added that the case is not related to dementia as Nancy Guthrie is described as “clear-minded” and “very sharp.”
Authorities have not found any threats against Savannah Guthrie. Savannah Guthrie is one of the anchors of the “NBC News” television program “TODAY,” currently in Arizona.
The “TODAY” show reported Nancy Guthrie’s situation at the opening of Monday morning’s broadcast and aired a statement from Savannah Guthrie, thanking everyone for their concern, prayers, and support messages.
“At this moment, our focus remains on the safe return of our beloved mother. We appreciate the diligent efforts of law enforcement in this case and urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Office at 520-351-4900,” said Savannah Guthrie in her statement.
The FBI has been informed of the case, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection is assisting in the investigation. The CBP is providing support with search dogs to aid in locating Nancy Guthrie.