“TODAY” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie is asking for prayers for her mother’s safe return as Arizona authorities continue to investigate her possible abduction.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was reported missing around noon on Sunday from her home outside Tucson after she was last seen the night before. Initially a search-and-rescue operation, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said Monday that officials are treating Guthrie’s disappearance as a “crime” and the department believes she was taken “possibly in the middle of the night and that includes possible kidnapping or abduction.”
Guthrie, who was absent from the “TODAY” show on Monday and Tuesday, expressed her gratitude for the support in a Monday night Instagram post — and asked for prayers for her mom’s safe return.
“We believe in prayer. We believe in voices raised in unison, in love, in hope. We believe in goodness. We believe in humanity. Above all, we believe in Him,” Guthrie wrote in a caption to a photo that reads “please pray.”
“Thank you for lifting your prayers with ours for our beloved mom, our dearest Nancy, a woman of deep conviction, a good and faithful servant. Raise your prayers with us and believe with us that she will be lifted by them in this very moment,” she added. “We need you.”
Guthrie has limited mobility and is without her necessary daily medication. She had no cognitive issues, and her disappearance was not linked to dementia, Nanos previously said, describing her as “sharp as a tack.”
“We know she was harmed at the home, but we don’t know to what extent,” Nanos told NBC News.
In a later interview with the Arizona Daily Star, Nanos refused to confirm or deny she was harmed, saying he “misspoke or something.”
Nanos has not provided additional details about the investigation, but previously said authorities are not aware of any threats against Savannah, who is in Arizona. The FBI is aware of the case.
As the investigation continues, Nanos said law enforcement officials are reviewing video from cameras at Guthrie’s home, where she lives alone and employs staff members, and urged neighbors to “go through their Ring cameras.” He also asked the public for any information about the case.
“I need this community to step up and start giving us some calls,” Nanos said.
A nonprofit group that works closely with the sheriff’s department and other law enforcement agencies in southern Arizona, 88-Crime, offered a reward of up to $2,500 on Monday night for information leading to the arrest of the person or persons involved in Guthrie’s disappearance.
A spokesperson for the sheriff’s department confirmed to NBC News that it works “hand in hand” with 88-Crime and that it’s common for the group to offer rewards for tips during investigations.
“‘He will keep in perfect peace those whose hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.’ A verse of Isaiah for all time for all of us,” Guthrie added in her Instagram post. “Bring her home.”
Arizona authorities say they’re using K-9s, helicopters, infrared systems and drones in their search for the missing mother of “TODAY” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. Robert Kovacik reports for the NBC4 News at 11 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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