Savannah Guthrie’s Mother Reported Missing in Arizona; Police Declare Crime Scene

TUCSON, 2 February 2026 – Authorities in Arizona have launched an intensive search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC’s Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. The elder Guthrie was reported missing over the weekend, leading to an immediate investigation that officials now state involves a potential criminal element.
Disappearance and Investigation
Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her residence in the Catalina Foothills area of Tucson, Arizona, at approximately 21:45 local time on Saturday, 31 January. The alarm was raised on Sunday when family members were unable to contact her. Savannah Guthrie was absent from her usual hosting duties at Studio 1A in New York on Monday morning as she travelled to Arizona to assist in the search.
During a press briefing on Monday, the local Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation has shifted in tone. “We do in fact have a crime scene,” the Sheriff stated, noting that evidence found within the home suggests Nancy Guthrie did not leave the premises of her own volition. Officials described the scene as “very concerning” and have cordoned off the property for forensic analysis.
Impact on NBC Coverage
The Today show opened its Monday broadcast with the news of the disappearance. Colleagues Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager expressed their support for Guthrie, with Bush Hager noting that Nancy Guthrie requires daily medication. Due to the ongoing crisis, Savannah Guthrie has reportedly withdrawn from her scheduled role in the upcoming coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony.
Key Facts: Missing Person Case
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Subject | Nancy Guthrie (84) |
| Last Seen | 31 January 2026, 21:45 |
| Location | Catalina Foothills, Arizona |
| Status | Active Crime Scene Investigation |
| Health Note | Requires daily medication |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the home being treated as a crime scene?
The local Sheriff’s Office stated that physical evidence found at the residence indicates Nancy Guthrie did not leave voluntarily. While specific details have not been released to protect the integrity of the investigation, authorities have confirmed they are treating the disappearance as a criminal matter.
Will Savannah Guthrie return to the Today show this week?
It is currently unknown when Guthrie will return to her hosting duties. She is currently in Arizona with her family. NBC has confirmed she will likely step back from her planned 2026 Winter Olympics coverage to focus on the search for her mother.
How can the public help?
Arizona authorities are asking anyone with information or who may have seen anything suspicious in the Catalina Foothills area on Saturday night to contact the local Sheriff’s Department immediately.
