Nancy Guthrie's Abduction May Be Retribution, Says Serial Killer Expert

Investigators believe they know the motive but have not disclosed details, citing the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:39am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single drop of blood on a wooden surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the evidence gathered in the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's kidnapping.A single drop of blood found at the scene of Nancy Guthrie's disappearance raises questions about the motive behind her abduction.Pima Today

The kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC's Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, could be motivated by retribution, according to an expert who has worked with the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit. Authorities have not identified a suspect or provided details about any significant breakthroughs in the case, which is now in its third month.

Why it matters

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has garnered national attention, with the FBI releasing surveillance footage and authorities urging the public to come forward with any information. The case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in solving high-profile kidnapping cases, especially when the motive is unclear.

The details

Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home on January 31 and reported missing the next day by her family. Authorities believe she was kidnapped, and drops of her blood were found on the front porch. In February, the FBI released surveillance footage showing a masked man, whom they called a suspect, outside her front door on the night she disappeared. Investigators have not identified a suspect or provided details about any significant breakthroughs in the case.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home on January 31, 2026.
  • Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on February 1, 2026.
  • In February 2026, the FBI released surveillance footage showing a masked man outside Nancy Guthrie's front door on the night she disappeared.

The players

Dr. Ann Burgess

A psychiatric nurse and researcher who worked with the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit to profile serial killers.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff leading the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Savannah Guthrie

The co-host of NBC's Today and the daughter of Nancy Guthrie.

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What they’re saying

“I am sure that law enforcement talked with her about that. Has she had any kind of, over the years, it wouldn't have to be just recent, did she ever get any bad letters, or anything along that line?”

— Dr. Ann Burgess, Psychiatric Nurse and Researcher

“I think from Day One, we had strong beliefs about what happened and those beliefs haven't diminished.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff

“I received so many letters, so much kindness to me and my whole family. We feel it. We feel your prayers, so thank you so much.”

— Savannah Guthrie

What’s next

Anyone with information is urged to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), 520-351-4900 or 88-CRIME or visit tips.fbi.gov.

The takeaway

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has captivated the nation, with authorities and experts working to uncover the motive behind the kidnapping. While the investigation continues, the case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in solving high-profile abduction cases, especially when the perpetrator's intentions are unclear.