A chilling urgency grips Arizona as Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos delivers a stark warning: "We're racing against the clock, and I pray that opportunity hasn't slipped away." The search for Nancy Guthrie, 84-year-old mother of Today show anchor Savannah Guthrie, has escalated into what officials describe as a critical, time-sensitive mission after her disappearance from her Tucson home over two days ago.
In an exclusive interview with NBC's Liz Kreutz on Today, Sheriff Nanos revealed that investigators suspect Nancy was forcibly removed from her home—possibly overnight—in what could be a kidnapping or abduction. "The sheriff has indicated a crime likely occurred," a spokesperson for the Pima County Sheriff's Department confirmed to TheEntBase, adding that the home has been designated a crime scene due to "highly troubling" conditions, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Nancy Guthrie. Savannah Guthrie/Instagram
The investigation has taken a forensic turn, with potential DNA evidence collected from the scene. However, Sheriff Nanos cautioned that conclusive results may take days to process, heightening the race against time. Adding to the urgency, he highlighted Nancy's vulnerability: she is without her essential daily medication—a situation that "could be life-threatening"—and has limited mobility, unable to walk 50 yards independently despite her sharp mental acuity.
Nancy's disappearance was first noticed when a church friend alerted Savannah and her siblings, Cameron and Annie, after she missed Sunday morning service. A search around her residence near East Skyline Drive and North Campbell Avenue proved fruitless, prompting the family to contact authorities.
Savannah Guthrie has been absent from Today as the search intensifies. In a statement read by colleagues on air, she expressed gratitude for the support: "Our family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of thoughts, prayers, and support. Our priority right now is ensuring our beloved mother's safe return." She later took to social media, urging prayers and writing, "We hold faith in prayer, in unity, love, and hope. We believe in goodness and humanity, and most of all, in Him."
Savannah Guthrie with her mom Nancy and sister Annie. Savannah Guthrie/Instagram
Today co-anchors have rallied in support. Carson Daly shared on Tuesday's broadcast: "I dropped to my knees and prayed harder than I ever have before." Craig Melvin echoed a plea for public assistance: "We know someone has information. Please come forward and call."
As the clock ticks, authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department at 520-351-4900. The community holds its breath, hoping for Nancy's safe return amid a deepening mystery that has captured national attention.
