The search for Nancy Guthrie, mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, has entered its fifth day, with law enforcement officials acknowledging the receipt of a ransom note and expressing urgent concern for her well-being. Officials stated that Guthrie, 84, appears to be without vital medication.
Timeline of Events
On Saturday, Nancy Guthrie took an Uber to her daughter’s home for an evening with family. She was dropped off at her home in the Catalina Foothills near North Campbell Avenue and East Skyline Drive around 9:48 p.m., and her garage door closed shortly after. At 1:47 a.m. On Sunday, her doorbell camera disconnected. Around 2:12 a.m., a person or animal was detected on a security camera, but the footage could not be recovered. At 2:28 a.m., her pacemaker app disconnected from her phone, which was left at the home.
Her family discovered her missing just before noon on Sunday when she did not arrive for church. Essentials, including her cellphone, wallet, car, and medications, were found at the home. A trail of blood was found near an entrance, and initial DNA testing confirmed it matched Nancy Guthrie.
Ransom and Investigation
The FBI is investigating a ransom letter sent to local and national media outlets demanding financial compensation for Guthrie’s return, with deadlines of 5 p.m. Thursday and again on Monday. Heith Janke, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Phoenix division, stated, “There has been no proof of life. Time is of the essence.” A $50,000 reward has been offered for information leading to her return or an arrest.
Federal officials arrested a man in Los Angeles Thursday morning for making an “impostor ransom demand” via text message, but he is not connected to the original ransom note. Camron Guthrie, Nancy’s son, issued a public plea for her safe return Thursday afternoon, urging her abductors to communicate with the family.
Concerns for Guthrie’s Health
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that Guthrie has physical ailments and requires daily medication. “This represents Day 4 or 5 and still we don’t know that she’s getting her medication and that could in itself be fatal,” he said. Law enforcement continues to perform “round the clock” on the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Nancy Guthrie last seen?
Nancy Guthrie was last seen by her family just after 9:45 p.m. On Saturday when her garage door opened and closed.
What has been the response from the Guthrie family?
Savannah Guthrie and her siblings shared a video plea on Wednesday, and Nancy’s son, Camron Guthrie, issued a video statement Thursday afternoon appealing to her abductors.
Is there a reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s return?
The FBI has announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s safe return or an arrest and conviction in her abduction.
As the investigation continues, what role might public awareness and continued pressure play in securing Nancy Guthrie’s safe return?
