Nancy Guthrie Disappearance: Authorities Confirm Blood Match, Say Investigation Continues With No Suspects
TUCSON, Ariz. — Authorities investigating the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie, confirmed Thursday that blood found at her Tucson home belongs to Guthrie and said the case is still being treated as a possible abduction, with no suspects identified. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said investigators are proceeding under the assumption that Guthrie is still alive, despite acknowledging there is no definitive proof at this stage.
“Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home,” Nanos said during a news conference, five days after she was reported missing.
Sheriff’s officials confirmed that DNA testing matched blood discovered on Guthrie’s porch to her, reinforcing investigators’ belief that she was taken from her home against her will sometime after being dropped off by family late Saturday night. She was reported missing Sunday after failing to appear at church. Authorities emphasized that there are currently no suspects or persons of interest and said the investigation remains active and wide-ranging.
Ransom Notes and FBI Involvement
Federal authorities are now assisting the investigation. Heith Janke, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Phoenix office, said investigators are taking seriously multiple purported ransom notes that have been sent to media outlets.
“To anyone who may be involved, do the right thing. This is an 84-year-old grandma,” Janke said.
According to officials, the ransom note included a demand for money, a deadline, and specific details about Guthrie’s home, including a floodlight and an Apple Watch information investigators say would not be widely known. At least three media organizations reported receiving ransom communications, all of which were turned over to law enforcement. A Tucson television station said one email included enough specific details that it did not appear to be a hoax. Authorities said any decision regarding ransom demands ultimately rests with the family.
Family’s Public Plea
A day before Thursday’s update, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released a video message directed at whoever may be holding their mother. In the emotional plea, the family said they were ready to talk but asked for proof that Nancy Guthrie is alive.
“We live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated,” Savannah Guthrie said in the video. “We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her.”
The sheriff’s department declined to comment on the family’s message, and officials said there has been no public response to the plea.
Search Conditions and Health Concerns
Investigators believe Guthrie did not leave voluntarily. She has limited mobility and multiple health issues, including high blood pressure, heart problems, and a pacemaker, according to sheriff’s dispatch audio from the initial search. Search efforts have been complicated by the surrounding desert terrain, dense brush, mesquite trees, and cactus, which authorities say can make visibility and access difficult.
“Some of it is so thick you can’t drive through it,” said Jim Mason, a longtime search-and-rescue commander not involved in the case.
Law enforcement returned to Guthrie’s home for additional searches this week, spending hours combing the property and nearby areas.
Vigil and National Attention
The case has drawn national attention, with President Donald Trump posting on social media that federal authorities are assisting and that he spoke directly with Savannah Guthrie earlier this week. In Tucson, hundreds gathered at a church vigil, lighting candles and praying for Guthrie’s safe return. Former colleagues and friends described her as sharp, kind, and deeply loved.
“We’re all holding our breath,” said Jeremy Thacker, a former coworker of Savannah Guthrie who attended the vigil.
As of Thursday evening, authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and urged anyone with information to come forward.
