Police shift to criminal investigation in Arizona disappearance
Nancy Guthrie vanished from her home
February 3, 2026: Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing from her residence in the Catalina Foothills area north of Tucson, Arizona, after family members last saw her on Saturday night, January 31, 2026. Authorities say she was at home around 9:30 p.m. before disappearing without a trace.
Police now treating it as a crime scene
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has shifted the case from a routine missing person search to a criminal investigation, believing evidence at the home suggests Nancy was taken against her will, possibly while she slept. Sheriff Chris Nanos said investigators think she did not leave voluntarily, emphasizing that Nancy is mentally sharp but has limited mobility, making it unlikely she wandered off on her own.
Last known movements and urgent concerns
A friend reported Nancy missing after she didn’t show up at church on Sunday, February 1. Family members found signs at the home that raised concern, and authorities have described the property as a crime scene. Investigators are reviewing home security footage, searching for DNA evidence, and pursuing all leads.
Critical health considerations
Officials have stressed urgency because Nancy requires daily medication, which could be life-threatening if not taken within 24 hours. Law enforcement personnel, including drones, search dogs, volunteers, and sections of the FBI and homicide unit, have been involved in the efforts.
Savannah Guthrie’s response
Savannah Guthrie has been absent from the Today show since her mother’s disappearance. In a family statement shared via the show, she thanked law enforcement and well-wishers for their support and urged anyone with information to come forward and contact investigators.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Nancy Guthrie?
Nancy Guthrie is the 84-year-old mother of Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie.
Q2: When was she last seen?
She was last seen at her Arizona home on the night of January 31, 2026.
Q3: What do police believe happened?
Authorities believe she was taken from her home against her will, and they are investigating it as a crime rather than a typical missing person case.
Q4: Why is there extra concern?
Nancy has limited mobility and requires daily medication that is critical to her health, heightening urgency.
Q5: How is Savannah Guthrie involved?
Savannah has paused her work and issued a statement thanking law enforcement and the public, urging anyone with information to contact authorities.
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