Authorities in Arizona are searching for the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie after investigators said she may have been abducted and could face life-threatening danger without her medication.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen about 9:30 p.m. Saturday at her home in the Tucson area. Her family reported her missing around noon Sunday. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is investigating whether she was taken overnight. Officials said Guthrie had limited mobility and do not believe she left on her own.
“This is not dementia-related. She’s as sharp as a tack,” Sheriff Chris Nanos said at a news conference. “The family wants everyone to know that this isn’t someone who just wandered off.”
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Nanos said a family member became concerned after receiving a call from someone at church saying Guthrie was not there. Family members then searched her home and called 911. The sheriff said Guthrie requires daily medication and urged anyone who may be holding her to release her immediately.
“If she’s alive right now her meds are vital. I can’t stress that enough,” Nanos said. “It’s been better than 24 hours, and the family tells us if she doesn’t have those meds, it can become fatal.”
Search crews initially used drones and dogs with help from volunteers, Border Patrol, and the FBI. Investigators later shifted their approach after finding evidence at the scene.
“We don’t see this as a search mission so much as it is a crime scene,” Nanos said.
Savannah Guthrie issued a statement Monday thanking supporters and asking for continued prayer. “Right now, our focus remains on the safe return of our dear Nancy,” she said.
As this investigation continues, we join many others in prayer for Savannah Guthrie, her mother Nancy and all those affected by this ordeal. We pray for protection, wisdom for investigators, and that Nancy Guthrie is returned home safely without further harm.
James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a background in journalism from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine.
