Authorities in Arizona revealed on Thursday that investigators believe the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, who has been reported missing, is still missing and no suspects have been identified yet.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos disclosed that DNA tests confirmed blood found on Nancy Guthrie’s porch matched her DNA, indicating she was taken against her will from her Tucson home at the age of 84 over the weekend.
Sheriff Nanos expressed the hope of bringing Nancy back home but admitted the lack of evidence proving she is still alive during a news conference held five days post her disappearance report.
The FBI announced a $50,000 US reward for information leading to the recovery of Nancy Guthrie or the apprehension and conviction of those responsible for her disappearance.
Meanwhile, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings made an emotional plea in a video message to the presumed kidnapper of their mother, awaiting a response with no public indication received yet.
Today show host Savannah Guthrie posted a video to her Instagram page on Wednesday appealing to anyone who may be holding her 84-year-old mother against her will. Investigators believe Nancy Guthrie was taken from her home over the weekend.
Guthrie emphasized their willingness to engage but insisted on proof of her mother’s well-being. In the video shared on social media, she acknowledged reports of a ransom letter circulating in the media.
“We are prepared to communicate. However, in a world where manipulation is prevalent, we need concrete assurance of her safety and your possession. We urge you to make contact; we are open to hearing from you. Please reach out.”
Deadline Passes for Alleged Ransom Note
FBI special agent Heith Janke acknowledged the seriousness of the purported ransom letter sent to media outlets but highlighted the absence of further communication from anyone claiming responsibility for holding Guthrie.
Janke noted the letter, whose authenticity was not definitively verified, set a ransom payment deadline for Thursday at 5 p.m., with a subsequent deadline on Monday, withholding further specifics.
As the initial deadline expired, authorities refrained from providing additional updates and emphasized the family’s prerogative in deciding on any ransom demands.
Search Efforts Persist
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on Saturday night after being dropped off at her home in Tucson following a family dinner, according to the sheriff’s department. Her disappearance was reported around 14 hours later when she failed to appear at church.
Given her limited mobility and medical conditions, including high blood pressure and heart-related issues, officials dismissed the possibility of her leaving voluntarily.