The mother of NBC News journalist Savannah Guthrie, 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, was reported missing from her home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona, on February 1st. Evidence suggests she was taken against her will, prompting a multi-agency investigation led by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI.
Intensified Investigation and Community Response
Authorities have conducted an extensive search of Guthrie’s property, a ranch-style house she has lived in since the 1970s. Investigators examined the roof, septic tank, and towed away her car. Searches were also conducted at her daughter Annie’s home. The investigation has involved drones, a helicopter, and review of surveillance footage.
The disappearance has drawn significant attention from the public, with neighbors and well-wishers leaving flowers, plants, and messages of support at the Guthrie home. Reporters have been present, documenting the ongoing investigation and community response.
Timeline of Events
On January 31st, Nancy Guthrie took an Uber to her daughter’s home for dinner and was dropped off around 9:48 p.m. Investigators believe she was abducted in her sleep early the next morning. Key moments identified through security footage and device monitoring include the disconnection of her doorbell camera at 1:47 a.m., detected motion at 2:12 a.m., and the disconnection of her pacemaker app from her phone at 2:28 a.m.
A ransom demand of six million dollars’ worth of bitcoin was reportedly made, with a deadline of 5 p.m. On February 9th. The FBI released images from the doorbell camera showing an individual wearing a balaclava, gloves, and a backpack, approaching the house. The individual’s tactical approach—specifically the placement of a holster—was described as “ridiculous” by a former FBI official.
Possible Motives and Family Plea
Authorities have identified five potential motives for kidnapping: financial gain, ideology, domestic discord, exploitation, and mental illness. The possibility that Savannah Guthrie’s profession as a journalist may have played a role has been raised, given recent rhetoric targeting journalists. On Monday, Savannah Guthrie released a video statement, describing the situation as a “nightmare” and pleading for the public’s help, stating, “We are at an hour of desperation.” She expressed her family’s belief that her mother is “still out there.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Nancy Guthrie disappear?
Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on February 1, 2026.
Where did Nancy Guthrie live?
Nancy Guthrie lived in a ranch-style house in Catalina Foothills, Arizona.
What has been the family’s response to the disappearance?
Savannah Guthrie has made public appeals for help and stated that her family believes her mother is still alive.
As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen whether authorities will be able to locate Nancy Guthrie and determine the circumstances surrounding her disappearance. The case could potentially evolve as new evidence emerges, or it may remain unresolved, leaving many questions unanswered.
