Sheriff's Office Refutes Claims in Savannah Guthrie's Mother Disappearance

Authorities deny reports of a suspect or seized vehicle in the case of Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 2:55pm

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The Pima County Sheriff's Department has pushed back against explosive allegations made by a NewsNation correspondent regarding the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie. The department denied identifying a suspect or seizing a vehicle, contradicting the reporter's claims of disturbing details about the crime scene and a brother-in-law being a suspect.

Why it matters

The disappearance of a high-profile figure's elderly family member has garnered significant media attention, and the sheriff's office is working to correct the record and maintain the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

The details

According to the sheriff's department, they have not identified a suspect or person of interest in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance. Detectives continue to speak with anyone who may have had contact with her, and they are awaiting additional forensic results. The department also stated they are not confirming the seizure of a car, as reported by the NewsNation correspondent.

  • Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on Sunday after failing to appear at church.
  • On Wednesday, the sheriff's department issued a statement refuting the claims made by the NewsNation reporter.

The players

Pima County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie.

Savannah Guthrie

The co-host of the 'Today' show and the daughter of the missing Nancy Guthrie.

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie who has been reported missing.

Ashleigh Banfield

A NewsNation correspondent who reported on the case, citing high-level sources.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff who has described Nancy Guthrie's residence as a "crime scene" and its condition as "seriously concerning."

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What they’re saying

“We have not identified a suspect or person of interest in this case. Detectives continue to speak with anyone who may have had contact with Mrs. Guthrie. We are also awaiting additional forensic results.”

— Pima County Sheriff's Department

“We are not confirming the car being seized, we are unsure where that reporter is getting that information.”

— Pima County Sheriff's Department

What’s next

The sheriff's department continues to investigate Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, including speaking with anyone who may have had contact with her and awaiting additional forensic results.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of law enforcement agencies maintaining the integrity of an investigation and correcting inaccurate media reports, especially when dealing with high-profile missing persons cases that can generate significant public interest and speculation.