Mother of TODAY Show Host Savannah Guthrie Reported Missing in Arizona Under “Concerning” Circumstances
TUCSON, Arizona — Authorities in Arizona are urgently searching for Nancy Guthrie, age 84, the mother of TODAY show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, who was reported missing Sunday afternoon after being last seen Saturday night near her home in the Catalina Foothills north of Tucson. Law enforcement officials described the circumstances surrounding her disappearance as “very concerning,” prompting a full-scale search and the involvement of homicide detectives even as the public prays for her safe return.
The case has drawn widespread attention not only because of her daughter’s public profile on NBC’s TODAY show, but also because of troubling signs investigators reportedly found at her home — details that have sparked concern among family, neighbors and local law enforcement.
Disappearance Reported After Worrying Scene Found at Home
According to Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, Nancy Guthrie was last seen on Saturday evening, January 31, at around 9:30–9:45 p.m. near her residence in the Catalina Foothills area — an affluent suburban neighborhood just north of Tucson. Her family reported her missing around noon on Sunday, February 2, after she failed to return home or respond to loved ones.
During a Sunday briefing, Sheriff Nanos said certain aspects of the scene at Nancy Guthrie’s home caused “grave concern” for investigators. While specifics were not publicly detailed, the sheriff confirmed that homicide detectives were assisting with the investigation due to these troubling findings. Authorities also stressed that foul play has not been ruled out at this stage.
“We’re throwing everything we can at this,” Nanos told reporters, emphasizing that the search and rescue effort is extensive and urgent, given Nancy’s age and physical health circumstances.
Full Search Operation Underway — Air and Ground Efforts
Law enforcement is sparing no resources in the search for Nancy Guthrie. Deputies have deployed drones, helicopters, search-and-rescue dogs, volunteers and ground units to comb the rugged terrain around Catalina Foothills. Customs and Border Protection teams have also contributed support, particularly in aerial search efforts.
At least one missing-persons flyer issued by the Pima County Sheriff’s Office lists Nancy Guthrie as approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing around 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. Her clothing at the time of disappearance has not been publicly confirmed.
Authorities are appealing directly to the public for information, urging anyone who saw a person matching Nancy’s description on Saturday night or afterward to contact the sheriff’s department immediately.
Health, Mobility and Vulnerability Concerns
Sheriff Nanos noted that while Nancy Guthrie is not believed to suffer from cognitive issues such as dementia or Alzheimer’s, she is not in good physical health and is considered a vulnerable adult. This has intensified urgency among law enforcement, as elderly individuals with limited mobility can be at increased risk when missing for extended periods. Foul play is one possibility investigators say they cannot rule out — though nothing has been confirmed.
“We don’t typically get the sheriff out at a scene like this,” Nanos said, underlining how unusual the circumstances have been so far. His comments reflect the seriousness with which authorities are treating the disappearance.
Savannah Guthrie and Family Respond to Crisis
Savannah Guthrie has not personally addressed the public about her mother’s disappearance as of Monday, but a spokesperson for TODAY and the Guthrie family released a statement confirming their cooperation with law enforcement and gratitude for the outpouring of support. The spokesperson also echoed the family’s hope that anyone with information will step forward to assist authorities.
Friends and colleagues have rallied around Savannah, who recently returned to TODAY on January 23 after a three-week absence due to vocal cord surgery. Their public appreciation for support and prayers underscores how deeply the situation has affected her.
Investigators Keep Options Open; Foul Play Not Ruled Out
Although foul play has not been confirmed, the involvement of homicide detectives in what is typically a missing-persons inquiry has drawn attention. Sheriff Nanos made it clear that investigators would not rule anything out as they examine evidence, interview neighbors and piece together Nancy’s last known movements.
“This is very concerning to us,” Nanos said, acknowledging that some of the items located at the Guthrie residence prompted extra scrutiny. Still, investigators caution that missing-persons cases involving the elderly often have complex explanations — from medical issues to disorientation during walks — even when the scene at home appears unusual.
Community Reaction and Call to Action
Locals in the Catalina Foothills community say they are heartbroken and concerned. Neighbors who know the Guthries describe Nancy as a familiar and friendly presence in the area, adding to the anxiety that has rippled through the neighborhood since her disappearance was reported. Supporters around the country are also urging anyone with possible leads to contact authorities.
Various online commentators have expressed shock after learning that homicide units are involved, noting that this is not typical in missing persons investigations — especially for elderly adults without cognitive impairments. Still, law enforcement’s approach aims to ensure that every possibility is thoroughly examined.
For now, police are continuing their search and pleading with the public to share any information, no matter how small, that could assist in finding Nancy Guthrie. The sheriff’s department has reiterated its contact number for tips and sightings.
