Missing Mother of Today Show Host Savannah Guthrie in Critical Condition Without Medication
Authorities in Arizona have issued an urgent warning about the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated on Monday that Guthrie did not leave her home near Tucson voluntarily and faces a life-threatening situation if she does not receive her medication within the next 24 hours.
Crime Scene Investigation Underway
Sheriff Nanos revealed that investigators believe a crime has occurred at Guthrie's residence. "We believe... that we do, in fact, have a crime scene, that we do in fact have a crime," Nanos told reporters during a press conference. The announcement came a day after law enforcement officers conducted a thorough search of her home.
While the sheriff could not provide specific details about the evidence leading to this conclusion, he emphasized that "there were circumstances on scene that... are suspicious in nature." The investigation has shifted from a simple missing persons case to a potential criminal matter.
Urgent Medical Needs and Timeline
The situation has become particularly dire due to Guthrie's medical requirements. Sheriff Nanos stressed that time is critical, explaining that if Guthrie fails to take one of her essential medications within the next day, "it could be fatal." This urgent timeline has intensified search efforts and public appeals for information.
Despite her physical limitations and limited mobility—which investigators say makes it impossible that she simply walked away—authorities confirmed that Guthrie remains cognitively sharp. "Nancy Guthrie is of great sound mind," Nanos stated. "This is not dementia-related. She is as sharp as a tack. The family wants everybody to know this isn't somebody who just wandered off."
Disappearance Timeline and Family Response
Guthrie was last seen on Saturday. Her family contacted authorities around noon on Sunday after a member of her church alerted them that she had not attended services. Law enforcement agencies and volunteers conducted extensive searches throughout Sunday and into the night.
On Monday morning, the hosts of the Today show addressed Guthrie's disappearance during their broadcast. A statement from Savannah Guthrie, who was absent from the episode, was read on air: "Our focus remains on the safe return of our dear mom." A spokesperson for the show confirmed that the Guthrie family is "working closely" with authorities in the search efforts.
Community Appeal and Personal Background
Sheriff Nanos made a heartfelt plea to the community for assistance in the case. "What I really need is, I need this community to step up and start giving us some calls, let us know you've seen something," he urged during the press conference.
Nancy Guthrie had recently appeared on the Today show approximately three months ago when her daughter filmed a segment in Tucson. During that appearance, she expressed her affection for the area, saying about her decision to plant roots there: "It's so wonderful... Just the air, the quality of life is laid back and gentle."
The search continues as authorities race against the 24-hour medication deadline, with the case now treated as both a missing persons emergency and a potential criminal investigation.
