Search Intensifies for Missing Today Show Co-Host's Mother

Investigators say they are 'definitely closer' to finding Nancy Guthrie as the high-profile kidnapping probe shifts into an evidence-driven phase.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Investigators say they are 'definitely closer' to finding 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, who vanished from her home near Tucson, Arizona, at the end of January. The search for the missing mother of Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie has moved into what experts describe as a 'critical' new stage, with law enforcement focusing on consolidating evidence and building a defensible timeline.

Why it matters

The case has drawn national attention due to Nancy Guthrie's connection to her famous daughter, Savannah Guthrie, a co-host of the Today show. Authorities have expressed concern for Nancy's health, as she requires vital daily medication, adding urgency to the investigation.

The details

Pima County authorities believe Nancy Guthrie was kidnapped, as drops of her blood were found on the front porch of her home. Investigators have released doorbell footage showing a masked suspect on the night she disappeared, and they are also reviewing surveillance footage and location data to establish a timeline. However, the investigation has faced challenges, including mixed DNA evidence inside Nancy's home that does not belong to her or known contacts.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her house on January 31 and reported missing the following day.
  • On February 10, the FBI released doorbell footage from the night she disappeared, showing a masked suspect.
  • In late February, the Pima County Attorney's Office said veteran prosecutors were continuing to work with law enforcement on the case.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

An 84-year-old Arizona grandmother who went missing from her home near Tucson at the end of January.

Savannah Guthrie

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

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff, who has stated that investigators are 'definitely closer' to identifying a suspect in the case.

Peter S. Christiansen

A Las Vegas criminal defense attorney who has provided expert analysis on the shift in the investigation from broad public outreach to evidence consolidation.

Laura Conover

The Pima County Attorney, who has stated that her team is focusing on the substance of the case rather than inserting themselves into the scene for optics.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

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

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.