Authorities Intensify Search for Missing 'Today' Show Host's Mother

Ransom deadline looms as FBI investigates credible emails and evidence at the scene

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has entered its second week as authorities investigate a potential ransom demand and evidence at her Arizona home. The FBI is taking two emails seriously, including what appears to be a ransom note with a second deadline set for later on Monday. Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have issued a plea for her safe return, as investigators search the home and surrounding areas for clues.

Why it matters

The high-profile disappearance of a prominent TV personality's elderly mother has captured national attention, raising concerns about her safety and the possibility of a ransom scheme targeting a vulnerable individual. The investigation could also shed light on home security vulnerabilities and the challenges law enforcement faces in resolving missing persons cases, especially those potentially involving abduction.

The details

According to authorities, the first ransom deadline was set for 5 p.m. Thursday, with a demand for payment in bitcoin. Investigators have also searched Nancy Guthrie's home, removing a camera from the roof and towing a dark-colored SUV from her garage. They are also canvassing nearby gas stations and the home of her daughter Annie, where Nancy had dinner the night before her disappearance. No suspects or persons of interest have been identified so far.

  • The search for Nancy Guthrie has entered its second week since she was reported missing on February 1.
  • The first ransom deadline was set for 5 p.m. Thursday.
  • A second ransom deadline is looming later on Monday.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show co-host Savannah Guthrie, who was reportedly abducted from her Arizona home.

Savannah Guthrie

The co-host of the 'Today' show and one of Nancy Guthrie's three children who have issued a plea for her safe return.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency that is investigating the disappearance and taking two emails, including a potential ransom note, seriously.

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What they’re saying

“We received your message and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us and we will pay.”

— Savannah Guthrie, Co-host, 'Today' show (CBS News)

“We pray for Nancy's rescue, we pray for her release, we pray that she will be brought safely home.”

— Reverend Dr. John Tittle, Pastor, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church (CBS News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the suspect out on bail.

The takeaway

This high-profile missing persons case highlights the vulnerabilities of the elderly and the challenges law enforcement faces in resolving abduction cases, especially those potentially involving ransom demands. It also underscores the importance of robust home security measures and community vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals.