Feb 3, 2026, 2:40 p.mFeb 3, 2026, 2:40 p.m
The 84-year-old mother of US TV presenter Savannah Guthrie has disappeared and, according to initial police estimates, was kidnapped from her own home in the state of Arizona.
US TV presenter Savannah Guthrie.Image: keystone
“From everything we saw at the scene, we assume a crime was committed,” said Chris Nanos, the sheriff of Pima County near Tucson, at a press conference on Monday (local time).
In an interview with US broadcaster CBS he said: “I think she was kidnapped, yes.” Nancy Guthrie, who according to him lives alone in her house, was last seen on Saturday evening. She was reported missing by family members on Sunday afternoon after she did not attend church.
“It didn’t go away on its own,” Nanos continued in the CBS interview. “She didn’t leave willingly.” Daughter Savannah Guthrie is the presenter of the “Today” show on NBC.
Sheriff: Woman needs medication within 24 hours
When asked why he assumed a crime was committed, Nanos referred to the 84-year-old’s limited mobility during the press conference. In addition, other details indicated that she did not leave the house on her own – he did not explain this further. “This is not a case of dementia,” emphasized Nanos. “She’s wide awake.”
Nancy Guthrie has some physical ailments, the sheriff continued. She needs medication that must be taken within 24 hours, otherwise fatal consequences are possible. Nanos asked the public for information and help. When asked whether the presenter’s mother was hit by chance or whether it was a targeted act, the sheriff said: “We don’t know. We’re investigating in every direction, but we don’t know.” (dab/sda/dpa)