Today Show Host Savannah Guthrie's Mother Reported Missing in Arizona
Savannah Guthrie was notably absent from Monday's broadcast of NBC's Today show following reports that her elderly mother has gone missing in Arizona. The disappearance has prompted a significant law enforcement response and expressions of concern from both authorities and Guthrie's colleagues.
Details of Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Saturday at her residence located north of Tucson, Arizona. According to official statements from the Pima County Sheriff's Department, a family member reported her missing at noon the following day, initiating an immediate investigation.
Sheriff Chris Nanos addressed the media on Sunday, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. "We're pretty much just throwing everything at this that we can," Nanos stated, highlighting concerns about Nancy Guthrie's age and physical health limitations that affect her mobility.
Law Enforcement Response and Concerns
The sheriff's department has mobilized substantial resources in the search effort, including:
- Aircraft and helicopters for aerial surveillance
- Drone technology for ground coverage
- Search-and-rescue dogs borrowed from Border Patrol
- Homicide detectives, though no body has been discovered
Authorities have described the scene at Guthrie's home as particularly troubling. Sheriff Nanos noted, "We don't typically get the sheriff out at a scene like this. But it's very concerning what we're learning from the house," though he declined to provide specific details about what investigators found.
Family and Colleague Responses
During Monday's Today broadcast, co-hosts Sheinelle Jones and Craig Melvin addressed the situation directly at the top of the program. "We want to get right to what is a deeply personal story for us," Melvin shared with viewers. "Nancy Guthrie, Savannah's beloved mother, has been reported missing in Arizona."
Savannah Guthrie, 54, released a statement through the Today show expressing gratitude for public support while focusing on her mother's safe return. "On behalf of our family, I want to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers, and messages of support," Guthrie stated. "Right now, our focus remains on the safe return of our dear mom."
Guthrie also acknowledged law enforcement efforts, encouraging anyone with information to contact the Pima County Sheriff's Department at 520-351-4900.
Background and Previous Appearances
Nancy Guthrie has maintained a visible presence alongside her daughter throughout Savannah's career at NBC. She has made several appearances on the Today show over the years, most recently in November when Guthrie featured a segment about her hometown of Tucson.
Sheriff Nanos confirmed that while Nancy Guthrie remains "of good sound mind," her physical health conditions present additional challenges for search teams. The sheriff expressed cautious optimism tempered by realism about the investigation's circumstances. "I hope we find her safe and sound but we can't ignore what's in front of us," Nanos told reporters.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department has circulated missing person notices through official channels, including social media platforms, as the search continues for the mother of one of American television's most recognizable morning show hosts.
