Savannah Guthrie Pleads for Mother's Safe Return After Kidnapping

NBC Today host asks kidnapper to prove Nancy Guthrie is alive and make contact with family

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Savannah Guthrie, host of the NBC Today show, has released a video message pleading for her 84-year-old mother Nancy Guthrie's safe return after she was reportedly kidnapped from her home in Tucson, Arizona. In the emotional video, Guthrie says her family is ready to talk to the kidnapper but needs proof that her mother is still alive, such as a voice recording or other verification. Authorities have been searching the area and investigating purported ransom notes, but have not identified any suspects or persons of interest so far.

Why it matters

The kidnapping of Savannah Guthrie's elderly mother has gripped the nation, as the popular Today show host appeals directly to the kidnapper for her mother's safe return. The case highlights the trauma and uncertainty that families face when a loved one is abducted, and raises questions about home security and the vulnerability of senior citizens to such crimes.

The details

According to authorities, Nancy Guthrie was last seen around 9:45 p.m. on Saturday when she was dropped off at her home in the Catalina Foothills neighborhood of Tucson. She was reported missing the next day when she did not show up for church. Police found signs of forced entry at her home and believe she was taken against her will, as she has limited mobility. Investigators have been searching the area and following up on tips, including purported ransom notes received by media outlets, but have not identified any suspects so far.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen around 9:45 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2026.
  • She was reported missing midday on Sunday, February 2, 2026 when she did not appear at church.

The players

Savannah Guthrie

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

Nancy Guthrie

Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother who was kidnapped from her home in Tucson, Arizona.

Annie Guthrie

Savannah Guthrie's sister who appeared in the video message.

Camron Guthrie

Savannah Guthrie's brother who appeared in the video message.

Chris Nanos

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

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What they’re saying

“We are ready to talk. However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated. We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us.”

— Savannah Guthrie, NBC Today Show Host (wbal.com)

“Mommy, if you are hearing this, you are a strong woman. You are God's precious daughter.”

— Savannah Guthrie, NBC Today Show Host (wbal.com)

“Mamma, If you're listening, we need you to come home. We miss you.”

— Annie Guthrie, Savannah Guthrie's Sister (wbal.com)

What’s next

Authorities have scheduled a news conference for Thursday to provide an update on the investigation. The Pima County Sheriff's Department said detectives are continuing to speak with anyone who had contact with Nancy Guthrie last weekend, but have not identified any suspects or persons of interest so far.

The takeaway

The kidnapping of Savannah Guthrie's elderly mother has sparked a nationwide outpouring of concern and support, highlighting the trauma that families face when a loved one is abducted. The case underscores the need for improved home security measures and greater protections for vulnerable senior citizens, as authorities work to bring Nancy Guthrie home safely.