Police in Pima County, Arizona, have officially notified TODAY show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie of a significant new development in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie. The update, confirmed by authorities approximately 20 minutes ago on February 15, 2026, comes amid intensified efforts by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI as the case enters its third week with no arrests and no confirmed location for the missing woman.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31, 2026, when family members dropped her off at her home in the Catalina Foothills area of Tucson. She was reported missing the following day, February 1, after failing to respond to routine check-ins. Investigators quickly classified the case as a kidnapping following the discovery of blood on the front porch of her residence. Forensic teams recovered additional evidence at the scene, including DNA from an unknown individual that does not match Nancy or anyone in her immediate family circle. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirmed this foreign DNA is undergoing rigorous testing, alongside several black gloves found discarded up to 10 miles away, which may be linked to the suspect.
Security footage from Nancy’s Nest doorbell camera proved pivotal. The FBI’s Operational Technology Division analyzed residual backend data to recover clear images and video of a masked, armed person tampering with the camera on the morning of her disappearance. The suspect is described as male, approximately 5’9″ to 5’10” tall, with an average build, wearing dark clothing and carrying a black 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. Authorities released these images publicly on February 10, triggering a flood of more than 21,000 tips in the first days, including over 4,000 in the initial 24 hours.
Multiple alleged ransom notes have surfaced, primarily sent to media outlet TMZ. The communications demanded payment in Bitcoin and included threats, with one recent note warning investigators to “be prepared to go international” to locate the “main individual” responsible. Savannah Guthrie addressed these demands in a public video plea, stating the family would not negotiate without concrete proof that her mother is alive. Nancy requires daily medication for high blood pressure, heart issues, and a pacemaker, raising urgent concerns about her well-being as days pass without contact.
Law enforcement activity escalated dramatically on February 13, when a SWAT team from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence near East Orange Grove Road and North First Avenue—roughly two miles from Nancy’s home. Multiple vehicles, including forensics and tactical units, sealed off the area late into the night. Reports indicated three people were detained at two related scenes: a man and woman (possibly mother and son) at one location, and another individual elsewhere. A vehicle was towed for examination. Despite initial speculation, Sheriff Chris Nanos clarified the following morning that no arrests were made, no one remained in custody, and the detentions were for questioning only. The FBI requested limited details be released due to the joint nature of the probe.
The investigation has drawn national attention, partly due to Savannah Guthrie’s prominence as a journalist and co-anchor. She has shared emotional appeals on social media, accompanied by siblings Annie and Camron, expressing unwavering belief that their mother is still alive. “We will never give up on her. Thank you for your prayers and hope,” she posted recently. The family has emphasized compassion amid grief, urging the public to focus on actionable tips rather than speculation.
The FBI doubled the reward to $100,000 for information leading to an arrest or conviction, underscoring the urgency. Tips continue to pour in via 1-800-CALL-FBI, 88-CRIME, or the local line 520-351-4900, as well as tips.fbi.gov. Authorities stress the need for verifiable leads, as unverified rumors—including fringe theories about family involvement—have been firmly dismissed by Sheriff Nanos.
Nancy Guthrie, a mother of three, was known in her community for her warmth and independence despite mobility limitations. Her sudden abduction from a quiet, upscale neighborhood has rattled Tucson residents and sparked broader conversations about home security, elderly vulnerability, and the challenges of rural-suburban investigations. The presence of foreign DNA, the suspect’s description, and the ransom communications point to a calculated act, though motive remains unclear.
As the latest notification to Savannah Guthrie hints at progress—possibly new forensic matches, tip corroboration, or leads from the recent operation—the case teeters on the edge of resolution or prolonged anguish. No confirmation has emerged regarding Nancy’s current status or condition, leaving her family and the public in suspense. Investigators maintain an active, multi-agency effort, combing through digital forensics, witness statements, and physical evidence.
The heartbreaking saga continues to unfold in real time. With each passing day, the hope that Nancy will be found safe grows more desperate. The notification to Savannah represents a critical juncture: whether this breakthrough brings closure or merely deepens the mystery, only time—and the tireless work of law enforcement—will reveal.
