An extensive search operation was conducted in Tucson’s Catalina Foothills on Sunday night for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie, host of NBC’s Today Show. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos expressed his deep concern during a briefing, stating, “We hope we find her safe and sound, but we are very concerned.” Nancy has been missing from her home since Saturday night.
Nanos mentioned the discovery of “concerning evidence” at the home, leading authorities to consider the possibility of foul play, although he refrained from providing specific details. He noted that the evidence warranted the involvement of a criminal investigation team, which is atypical for missing persons cases. “We’re pretty much throwing everything at this,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Family members last saw Nancy between 9:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. on Saturday. Concerned when she could not be located, they reported her missing around noon on Sunday. Search efforts included ground crews, canine teams, drones, and aerial surveillance from the Sheriff’s Department’s airplane in the vicinity, particularly south of East Skyline Drive and west of North Campbell Avenue. Deputies also reached out to local hospitals and medical transport services to gather information.
Search crews, equipped with headlamps, were observed combing through the area on Sunday night, as neighbors joined the effort by calling out for the missing woman. Nanos classified Nancy as a “vulnerable adult” due to her age and mobility challenges, although he confirmed that she has no cognitive impairments.
Nancy Guthrie stands approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighs around 150 pounds, and has brown hair and blue eyes. The specific clothing she may be wearing remains unknown. Authorities are urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact 9-1-1 or the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.
Savannah Guthrie, who grew up in Tucson and graduated from the University of Arizona, was not present in the city during the search. Last year, she visited and filmed segments that showcased her hometown for the Today Show. The family is hopeful for her safe return as the search continues.