On January 31, 2026, 84-year-old Nancy Ellen Guthrie disappeared from her home in the Catalina Foothills near Tucson, Arizona, in what authorities believe was a suspected abduction. Nancy, described as mentally sharp but physically limited due to her age, was last seen after
being dropped off at home by family. When she failed to attend a scheduled church livestream the next morning, relatives checked on her and discovered she was missing. Personal belongings, including her phone and medication, were left behind, leading investigators to conclude that she did not leave voluntarily.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department quickly classified the residence as a crime scene, citing concerning evidence inside the home. Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that signs at the scene pointed toward foul play. The FBI soon joined the investigation, assisting with forensic analysis, search operations, and public outreach. Authorities conducted extensive searches using drones, K-9 units, and ground teams, while also reviewing surveillance footage and executing search warrants at nearby properties. Despite these large-scale efforts, no arrests have been made.
Surveillance footage from a Google Nest doorbell camera captured a masked individual wearing gloves and carrying a distinctive backpack during the early hours of February 1. The suspect is described as a male approximately 5’9” to 5’10” with an average build. Investigators also collected DNA evidence, including bloodstains and gloves found near the scene. An unknown male DNA profile was developed and entered into the FBI’s CODIS database, but no matches have been identified so far.
The case intensified after ransom notes demanding cryptocurrency were sent to local media outlets. Authorities are still investigating whether these communications are authentic or unrelated hoaxes. Meanwhile, Nancy’s daughter, Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, temporarily stepped away from her duties to focus on the search. The family has made emotional public appeals for information, and law enforcement has confirmed that relatives have been fully cooperative and are not considered suspects.
As the investigation enters its fourth week, officials stress that the case remains active and urgent. Reward funds have surpassed $200,000 thanks to public support, and community members have shown solidarity by displaying yellow ribbons. Authorities continue analyzing forensic and digital evidence while urging the public to share any relevant information. With no suspects publicly named and no arrests made, investigators say time is critical as they work to locate Nancy and bring those responsible to justice.