Sheriff Pleads for Help in Search for Missing Today Show Co-Host's Mother

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos fights back tears as he appeals for information on Nancy Guthrie's disappearance

Feb. 3, 2026 at 11:47am

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The sheriff investigating the disappearance of Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie, 84, got visibly emotional during an interview. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos teared up as he spoke about the case, saying they are in a 'race against time' as Nancy relies on medication that could be life-threatening if not taken within 24 hours. Nanos expressed hope that Nancy is still alive and urged the public to come forward with any photos or videos that could aid the investigation.

Why it matters

The disappearance of a high-profile public figure's elderly mother has captured national attention, highlighting the urgency and challenges of missing persons cases, especially for vulnerable individuals. The sheriff's emotional plea underscores the human toll of such incidents and the community's role in providing information to assist law enforcement.

The details

Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her Arizona home and was reported missing by her family over the weekend. Sheriff Nanos said they are actively testing DNA found in the house and are waiting on results from a lab in Phoenix. He expressed hope that Nancy is still alive but acknowledged the case is 'time-sensitive' due to her medical needs.

  • Nancy Guthrie was reported missing by her family over the weekend.
  • On Monday, Sheriff Nanos spoke to CBS 5 host Briana Whitney about the case.
  • Nanos also gave an interview to the Today show's Liz Kreutz the same day, saying the investigation is a 'race against time'.

The players

Savannah Guthrie

Co-host of the Today show and Nancy Guthrie's daughter.

Nancy Guthrie

84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie who has been missing for four days from her Arizona home.

Chris Nanos

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

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What they’re saying

“We hope she's out there somewhere.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (CBS 5)

“It's a race against time.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (Today show)

What’s next

The sheriff said they are waiting on DNA test results from a lab in Phoenix that could help identify what they are 'looking at' in the investigation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgency and challenges of missing persons investigations, especially for vulnerable individuals. The sheriff's emotional plea underscores the need for the public's assistance in providing any information that could aid the search for Nancy Guthrie.