TUCSON, Ariz. (TNND) — The search for the mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie entered day five on Thursday as her children continue to plead for her to return home safely.
Authorities said on Wednesday that no suspect or person of interest has been identified and urged people to stop sharing incorrect information online.
“The sharing of unverified accusations or false information is irresponsible and does not assist the investigation,” the Pima County Sheriff’s Department noted. “No suspect or person of interest has been identified at this time.”
Deputies are expected to hold a briefing on the case at 1 p.m. ET on Thursday.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen in the Catalina Foothills in Tucson, Arizona, on Saturday night after being dropped off at her home between 9:30 and 9:45 p.m. She was reported missing by her family on Sunday at about 11 a.m., Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said.
Nanos explained that a family member received a call from the mother’s church, stating she had not shown up for services, before her family searched the home and called 911.
Investigators said they found signs of forced entry and believe she was kidnapped, abducted, or taken against her will.
“We don’t see this as a search mission so much as it is a crime scene,” the sheriff said.
Nanos added that Nancy Guthrie has limited mobility and indicated she did not leave on her own.
“If she’s alive right now, her meds are vital. I can’t stress that enough. It’s been better than 24 hours, and the family tells us if she doesn’t have those meds, it can become fatal,” Nanos told reporters.
Just before 4 p.m. Tuesday, the Pima County Sheriff’s Office shared on social media that it was “aware” of reports of a possible ransom note in connection with Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance.
“We are aware of reports circulating about possible ransom note(s) regarding the investigation into Nancy Guthrie. We are taking all tips and leads very seriously,” Sheriff Nanos wrote on X. “Anything that comes in, goes directly to our detectives who are coordinating with the FBI.”
They also shared a QR code, encouraging anyone with information to submit further tips.
Around an hour before the sheriff’s office note, TMZ shared that it reportedly received an “unverified ransom note” demanding “a substantial amount for the return” of Guthrie. The outlet said it contacted law enforcement about the alleged note.
Savannah Guthrie, along with her siblings, shared an emotional video on social media on Wednesday night to plead for their mother’s return and address the alleged ransom note.
“Everyone is looking for you, Mommy, everywhere,” Savannah Guthrie said in the video. “We will not rest. Your children will not rest until we are together again.”
“As a family, we are doing everything that we can. We are ready to talk. However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated. We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us.”
The sheriff’s office said on Wednesday that they were conducting a follow-up at the Guthrie home after crime scene tape and officers were spotted at the scene.
Multiple media outlets reported evidence bags being carried into the house, FBI agents, and sniffing dogs.
President Donald Trump directed “ALL Federal Law Enforcement” to help the Guthrie family and local law enforcement.
“I spoke with Savannah Guthrie, and let her know that I am directing ALL Federal Law Enforcement to be at the family’s, and Local Law Enforcement’s, complete disposal, IMMEDIATELY. We are deploying all resources to get her mother home safely,” he wrote on Truth Social.
Police said they collected digital evidence from the home and surrounding area, including security camera footage, cell phone data and license plate reader information. Nanos said in an update on Tuesday that all of the evidence gathered at the home had been submitted to labs.
Additionally, Nanos mentioned that possible DNA evidence was found at the crime scene.
“We took some samples that we hope will have enough profile of a DNA profile that gives us some identification of what we’re looking at,” he said.
Investigators said they are working with state, federal and private-sector partners to analyze potential leads.
Jon Edwards, the assistant special agent in charge of the FBI office in Tucson, told reporters the agency is doing everything it can to provide support.
“Primarily its analytical and technical support,” Edwards explained. “We’re downloading and analyzing cell phones, obtaining cell tower information, conducting interviews, and providing any and all investigative support that the sheriff’s department needs.”
“We are looking at this from every angle, but we need your help,” Edwards said, adding, “Every lead and tip is important. We are aggressively pursuing and looking into every single one.”
