Savannah Guthrie Pleads for Mother's Safe Return After Suspected Kidnapping

The Today show host makes an emotional appeal to the suspected kidnapper, offering to pay for her mother's release.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:48pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled piece of paper, the surface texture and shadows creating a stark, gritty visual that conceptually represents the physical evidence in this suspected kidnapping case.The Guthrie family's emotional plea for Nancy's safe return underscores the gravity of this high-profile kidnapping case.Pima Today

In a heartbreaking video, Savannah Guthrie, a prominent figure on the Today show, delivers a powerful message to the suspected kidnapper of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy. Guthrie, alongside her siblings Camron and Annie, conveys the family's unwavering determination to secure Nancy's safe return, stating they will pay for her release.

Why it matters

The high-profile nature of Guthrie's role on national television and the emotional nature of the plea have drawn significant public attention to the case, which authorities believe involves an abduction. The family's openness to communication and willingness to negotiate underscore their desperation to bring Nancy home safely.

The details

In the 20-second video shared on Instagram, Guthrie states, 'We received your message and we understand. We will pay for our mother's return.' The family also addressed the media reports about a ransom letter, with Guthrie noting the need for proof of her mother's well-being due to the ease of manipulating voices and images. Camron Guthrie also posted a video urging the suspected kidnappers to reach out, emphasizing the family's readiness to communicate.

  • On Wednesday, the family addressed the suspected kidnapper for the first time.
  • On Thursday, Camron Guthrie posted a video urging the suspected kidnappers to reach out.

The players

Savannah Guthrie

A prominent figure on the Today show and the daughter of the suspected kidnapping victim, Nancy Guthrie.

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie, who is believed to have been kidnapped.

Camron Guthrie

The son of Nancy Guthrie and brother of Savannah Guthrie, who has also made a public plea for his mother's safe return.

Annie Guthrie

The daughter of Nancy Guthrie and sister of Savannah Guthrie, who appeared alongside her siblings in the emotional video appeal.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff, who has confirmed the presence of bloodstains at the scene and believes Nancy Guthrie was abducted.

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What they’re saying

“We received your message and we understand. We will pay for our mother's return.”

— Savannah Guthrie, TV Host

“Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you. We haven't heard anything directly. We need you to reach out and we need a way to communicate with you so we can move forward. But first, we have to know that you have our mom. We want to talk to you and we are waiting for contact.”

— Camron Guthrie, Son of Nancy Guthrie

What’s next

The Pima County Sheriff's Department is continuing its investigation into the suspected kidnapping, and the family remains hopeful for Nancy Guthrie's safe return.

The takeaway

This high-profile case highlights the emotional toll of a kidnapping on a family and the importance of open communication between authorities, the media, and the suspected perpetrators in order to secure the safe return of a loved one.