Authorities Believe Nancy Guthrie's Abductor Could Strike Again

Sheriff Chris Nanos warns the public to remain vigilant as the search for the 84-year-old continues.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 2:23pm

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As the search for Nancy Guthrie continues, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos shared his belief that her abductor could strike again. Nanos said "Absolutely" when asked if the abductor could target others, explaining that while they believe the crime was targeted, they're "not 100 percent sure of that." The sheriff urged the public to stay alert, warning "Don't think for a moment because it happened to the Guthrie family you're safe."

Why it matters

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show anchor Savannah Guthrie, has gripped the nation. Authorities have declared her Arizona home a crime scene and believe she was abducted, raising concerns that the perpetrator may strike again. This case highlights the vulnerability of the elderly and the urgent need to find Nancy and bring her captors to justice.

The details

Police say Nancy Guthrie was last seen by her family at her Tucson home around 9:30 p.m. on January 31. She was reported missing the next day when she didn't show up for a church service. Authorities found evidence of a crime at her home and believe she was taken against her will, possibly in the middle of the night. Nancy requires daily medication, and officials warn that without it, her life is in danger.

  • Nancy Guthrie was last seen by her family around 9:30 p.m. on January 31.
  • Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on February 1 after she didn't show up for a church service.

The players

Chris Nanos

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

Savannah Guthrie

The Today show anchor and daughter of Nancy Guthrie.

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What they’re saying

“Absolutely. We believe we know why he did this, and we believe that it was targeted, but we're not 100 percent sure of that, so it'd be silly to tell people, 'Yeah, don't worry about it. You're not his target.'”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (NBC Nightly News)

“Don't think for a moment because it happened to the Guthrie family you're safe. Keep your wits about you.”

— Chris Nanos, Pima County Sheriff (NBC Nightly 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 case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on Tucson streets, and if any special laws are needed to govern the security of elderly residents and autonomous vehicles in residential areas.