The mystery surrounding the disappearance of the 84-year-old mother of NBC News anchor Savannah Guthrie has deepened.
Nancy Guthrie disappeared in the middle of night from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on January 31, and authorities believe she was taken against her will.
Police in Arizona have not yet identified a person of interest in the suspected abduction and continue to investigate a series of apparent ransom notes that may have been sent from the person or people behind the alleged crime.
The Guthrie family has made several public pleas for her safe return and has asked for proof that their mother is still alive.
When did Nancy Guthrie go missing?
Guthrie was last seen at her home in Catalina Foothills, an affluent neighbourhood roughly six miles (10km) northeast of Tucson, on the evening of January 31 when family members dropped her off around 9:30 PM local time.
At 1:47 AM on February 1, a doorbell camera at her home was disconnected and removed. At 2:28 AM, the app on her pacemaker disconnected from her phone, heightening concerns.
Her absence at a church service the following Sunday alerted family members, leading to a police search involving volunteers and federal officers from Border Patrol.
More than a week later, officials released videos showing a masked person, said to be armed, at her doorstep the night she disappeared. Savannah Guthrie shared the video online, urging anyone who recognizes the individual to help find her mother.
Police found blood on Nancy Guthrie's porch, confirmed to be hers, raising fears about her health as officials warned she may be in dire need of medication.
Details on Alleged Ransom Notes
FBI Special Agent Heith Janke reported ongoing review of a possible ransom note sent to media outlets, which contained details about items at Nancy’s home.
According to police, one ransom note included two deadlines, prompting further investigation by the FBI, including the arrest of a suspect related to a fake ransom note.
In a heartfelt plea, Savannah Guthrie addressed potential abductors, stating the family is ready to negotiate for her mother’s safe return, emphasizing the need for assurance that Nancy is alive.
Just days later, Savannah released another video, amidst the investigation, sharing her heartbreak and appealing for help from the public.
On February 6, officials announced a reward of $50,000 for information leading to an arrest. US President Donald Trump also commented on the unusual nature of the case, ordering federal assistance for the ongoing investigation.
Who is Savannah Guthrie?
Born in Australia and raised in Tucson, Savannah Guthrie, 54, has become a notable American journalist, serving as co-anchor of NBC News’ Today since 2012. Guthrie has a strong background in law and journalism, preparing her for high-profile interviews and reporting.
