Search for 'Today' Host's Missing Mother Highlights Disparity in Missing Persons Cases

The extensive investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance contrasts with the struggles of other families seeking help for their missing loved ones.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, has captivated the nation and prompted an extensive investigation involving hundreds of law enforcement agents and a $100,000 FBI reward. However, the intense focus on this high-profile case has also illuminated the stark reality that many families of missing persons do not receive the same level of attention and resources from authorities.

Why it matters

The Guthrie case highlights the disparity in how missing persons investigations are handled, with some families benefiting from widespread public sympathy and substantial law enforcement resources, while others struggle to secure even basic investigative assistance. This disparity is particularly pronounced for marginalized communities, where missing persons cases often receive less attention.

The details

Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1 and is believed to have been abducted, according to the Pima County Sheriff's Department. The case has garnered significant media coverage and political attention, including a call from former President Donald Trump to Savannah Guthrie offering support. In contrast, Tonya Miller, whose mother Betty Miller disappeared under suspicious circumstances in Sullivan, Missouri, in 2019, described a frustrating experience where she had to independently fund a $20,000 reward and organize search parties after local police didn't treat her mother's disappearance with sufficient urgency.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1, 2026.
  • Betty Miller disappeared under suspicious circumstances in Sullivan, Missouri, in 2019.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie, who was last seen at her home in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1, 2026 and is believed to have been abducted.

Savannah Guthrie

The host of the 'Today' show, whose mother Nancy Guthrie has gone missing.

Tonya Miller

The daughter of Betty Miller, who disappeared under suspicious circumstances in Sullivan, Missouri, in 2019.

Betty Miller

Tonya Miller's mother, who disappeared under suspicious circumstances in Sullivan, Missouri, in 2019.

Connor Hagan

An FBI spokesperson who confirmed the agency's commitment to the Nancy Guthrie investigation.

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What they’re saying

“Families like ours that have just your normal missing people, they have to fight to gain any support.”

— Tonya Miller, Daughter of Betty Miller (Associated Press)

“Every person deserves to be safe, and when someone is missing, there should be an immediate, coordinated, and effective response. For many Native women, longstanding gaps in resources, coordination, and systemic support for Tribal Nations have made prevention and response more difficult.”

— Lucy Simpson, CEO of the National Indigenous Women's Resource Center (archyde.com)

What’s next

Authorities continue to investigate the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, analyzing evidence collected from her property and urging anyone with information to contact the FBI or the Pima County Sheriff's Department.

The takeaway

The extensive resources and attention dedicated to the Nancy Guthrie case serve as a stark contrast to the struggles faced by many other families seeking help for their missing loved ones, particularly those from marginalized communities. This disparity highlights the urgent need for a more equitable and comprehensive approach to missing persons investigations, ensuring that all individuals receive the same level of support and resources, regardless of their background or public profile.