Sun Feb 15, 2026 | Updated 07:29 AM IST
The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of television anchor Savannah Guthrie, has gripped national attention for over a week. What began as concern when she failed to attend her usual Sunday virtual church gathering has now evolved into a suspected abduction investigation involving ransom notes, FBI coordination and a detained individual.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what has happened so far.
Nancy Guthrie spent the evening with her daughters for dinner. She travelled by Uber to her daughter Annie’s home and was later dropped back at her own house by her son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, at approximately 9:48 PM.
At a press conference, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated, “It is that time we assume that Nancy’s home and probably going to bed.”
That was the last confirmed sighting of her.
In the early hours, Nancy’s doorbell camera was disconnected at around 1:47 AM. Surveillance software detected movement shortly before. At 2:28 AM, her pacemaker was disconnected from her phone.
Later that morning, friends contacted the family when Nancy failed to log in for their regular virtual church service. Police were alerted, and by 12:15 PM authorities confirmed she was missing.
Investigators found blood on the front porch. Forensics later confirmed it belonged to Nancy Guthrie.
Sheriff Chris Nanos told reporters that investigators had identified troubling signs at the home.
“We believe now after we've processed that crime scene that we do in fact have a crime scene, that we do in fact have a crime, and we're asking the community's help.”
He later told CBS News, “I believe she was abducted, yes. She didn't walk from there. She didn't go willingly.”
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Two days after her disappearance, several media outlets including TMZ and KOLD received ransom letters demanding millions of dollars in bitcoin for Nancy’s return. The first note set a deadline of 5 PM on 5 February.
“We are aware of reports circulating about possible ransom note(s) regarding the investigation into Nancy Guthrie,” Sheriff Nanos said. “We are taking all tips and leads very seriously. Anything that comes in, goes directly to our detectives who are coordinating with the FBI.”
On 6 February, a second ransom note emerged. According to CNN, it referenced sensitive information and demanded $6 million, though it did not specify a deadline. The Sheriff’s office confirmed investigators were examining its authenticity.
As days passed without contact, Savannah Guthrie released emotional video appeals.
“We need to know without a doubt that she’s alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us.”
She added that her mother “lives in constant pain” and is dependent on medication: “She is without any medicine. She needs it to survive. She needs it not to suffer.”
Addressing her directly, she said: “Mommy, if you are hearing this, you are a strong woman. You are God's precious daughter, Nancy… We will not rest, your children will not rest, until we are together again.”
On 7 February, flanked by her siblings, she made another plea: “We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her… This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”
Meanwhile, Camron Guthrie appealed directly: “Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you. We haven’t heard anything directly. We need you to reach out, and we need a way to communicate with you so we can move forward.”
Authorities also announced a $50,000 reward for information.
Investigators returned to Nancy’s home, examining areas including the septic tank. The FBI later stated it was “not aware of any continued communication between the Guthrie family and suspected kidnappers.”
As of 9 February, no proof of life had been provided.
On 10 February, officials confirmed that an individual had been detained during a traffic stop south of Tucson in connection with the case. Authorities described it as a potential breakthrough, though no further details have been released.
More than ten days since Nancy Guthrie was last seen, the case remains unresolved. With no confirmed proof of life and ongoing investigation efforts, her disappearance continues to raise urgent questions, and hope for answers.
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