Still Missing: Savannah Guthrie’s Mother Nancy, FBI Offers $50,000 Reward in Urgent Search

Savannah Guthrie, the familiar face of NBC’s Today show, has been thrust into a deeply personal crisis as her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, remains missing in Tucson, Arizona. Authorities and family members alike are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the urgency of the situation given Nancy’s fragile health.

High-profile Search Intensifies

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos spoke to reporters Thursday, confirming that investigators believe Nancy Guthrie is “still out there” and actively searching for her. “We want her home,” Nanos said, reiterating the commitment of local law enforcement to solving this disturbing disappearance. The FBI has joined the search and has announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy’s recovery or the identification and conviction of those responsible for her disappearance.

This development comes after Nancy was last seen Saturday night when she was dropped off at her Tucson residence following dinner with family. Since then, the investigation has treated the case as a potential abduction. Evidence gathered at her home—including a small amount of blood confirmed to be hers—has intensified concern over her safety.

Ransom Note Raises Alarm

Officials confirmed the existence of a ransom note, which they are taking seriously. The note reportedly included a deadline of Thursday at 5 p.m., though the time zone was unspecified. Heith Janke, the FBI’s special agent in charge of the Phoenix field office, indicated that if the first demand was unmet, a second demand was scheduled for the following Monday. While Janke would not provide specifics of the note’s threats, he warned that failure to comply could result in “a worse, much worse scenario” for the perpetrators.

Separately, an alleged impostor attempted to profit from the situation by issuing a fake ransom demand, resulting in an arrest. “To those impostors who are trying to take advantage and profit from this situation: We will investigate and ensure you are held accountable for your actions,” Janke stated.

Evidence Under Review

Investigators have been meticulously reviewing all available evidence to determine what happened to Nancy Guthrie. A doorbell camera at her home was disconnected at approximately 1:47 a.m. on Sunday, and another camera briefly detected motion around 2:12 a.m. Although the footage has yet to yield definitive results—analysts suggest it could have been triggered by wildlife—law enforcement is leaving no stone unturned. Her pacemaker disconnected from an app on her cellphone shortly thereafter, adding to the timeline of events during those critical early hours.

Investigators have returned to Nancy’s neighborhood for additional follow-up work, examining the home and surrounding area for clues. They have also invited investigators from other agencies to examine the crime scene. Currently, no suspect or person of interest has been identified.

FBI’s Comprehensive Approach

According to law enforcement sources, a dedicated FBI team is on the ground in Tucson, including evidence recovery personnel, intelligence analysts, hostage negotiators, victim specialists, and administrative staff. Agents are reviewing security camera footage from the area, interviewing neighbors, family members, and anyone connected to the Guthrie family. Cellphone data is also being examined to track phones that pinged nearby towers during the critical timeframe. A 24/7 command post has been established at the FBI’s Tucson field office, underscoring the seriousness of the investigation.

Sheriff Nanos emphasized that Nancy Guthrie’s daily need for medication adds urgency to the search. He dismissed the idea that she may have wandered off voluntarily, noting that she does not have cognitive impairments but does have limited mobility, making it unlikely she could disappear without assistance.

Community Reacts

Residents in Nancy Guthrie’s neighborhood have become more vigilant since the disappearance. Catalina Foothills Association board member Laura Gargano told CBS News that many neighbors have been installing or upgrading home security systems and reviewing camera footage at deputies’ request. While the area is typically quiet, with common desert wildlife such as coyotes and bobcats, residents are acutely aware of the potential danger and are cooperating fully with authorities.

Family Pleas for Her Return

Savannah Guthrie has made multiple public appeals for her mother’s safe return. In an emotional video posted to social media, she emphasized the urgency of Nancy’s medical needs. “We are ready to talk, however, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated. We need to know, without a doubt, that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you, and we are ready to listen. Please, reach out to us,” she said.

Savannah’s siblings, Annie Guthrie and Charles Camron Guthrie, joined her in the plea, addressing Nancy directly. “Mama, if you’re listening, we need you to come home, we miss you,” Annie said. Charles added, “We love you, Mom, stay strong, come home.” Their words reflect the emotional toll this disappearance has taken on the family, and the public’s awareness has only intensified the spotlight on the investigation.

In a separate video Thursday night, Camron Guthrie reiterated the family’s willingness to communicate with anyone holding Nancy, emphasizing that proof of her well-being is essential before any negotiations or exchanges can occur. “We haven’t heard anything directly. We need you to reach out, and we need a way to communicate with you so we can move forward,” he said.

National Attention and Support

The high-profile nature of the case has drawn national attention. Former President Donald Trump publicly shared his concern and support for Savannah Guthrie, stating on social media that all available resources are being deployed to ensure Nancy’s safe return. “The prayers of our Nation are with her and her family,” he wrote, highlighting the widespread concern for the missing matriarch.

Law enforcement experts have noted that identifying a motive will be critical in narrowing down suspects. Rodney Harrison, former Suffolk County police commissioner and CBS News law enforcement contributor, told The Daily Report that understanding why Nancy Guthrie was targeted is essential to identifying potential persons of interest.

Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps

Authorities continue to leave no stone unturned. Security footage, cellphone data, and neighborhood interviews remain central to the investigation. The FBI and local law enforcement are working together in a joint effort to locate Nancy and bring her safely home. With her health at risk, time is of the essence.

The public is being asked to come forward with any information that could assist in Nancy Guthrie’s recovery. Authorities have emphasized that even seemingly minor details could prove critical in resolving the case.

Conclusion

As the investigation continues, Savannah Guthrie and her family remain hopeful, urging those responsible—or anyone with information—to step forward. The combination of FBI resources, local law enforcement efforts, and the nationwide spotlight on the case has created a strong push for Nancy Guthrie’s safe return. The $50,000 reward underscores the seriousness of the situation and the urgent need for answers.

In the coming days, authorities will continue to analyze evidence, review communications, and pursue leads, all while the nation watches and prays for the safe recovery of Nancy Guthrie. The story serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of safety and the critical importance of community vigilance and law enforcement coordination in cases of missing persons.