TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — The investigation into the apparent kidnapping of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie is intensifying as authorities continue their efforts to locate her one week after she was reported missing from her home near Tucson, Arizona. Nancy is the mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie, who has publicly expressed her family's desperation in a recent social media appeal.
In a heartfelt video shared on Saturday, Savannah, accompanied by her siblings, urged potential kidnappers to ensure Nancy's safe return. She emphasized her family's willingness to pay for her mother's release, stating, "We received your message. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay." Savannah's message indicates the family's grave concern for Nancy's safety and health.
The FBI is actively investigating the case. An FBI spokesman noted that Savannah's message referred to a communication received by the Tucson-based television station KOLD on Friday. However, the station has chosen not to disclose the specifics of that message as law enforcement conducts its review of the situation.
Investigators believe that Nancy Guthrie was forcibly taken from her residence last weekend. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos revealed that DNA tests confirmed the blood found on Nancy's front porch matched her own, raising alarms about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
During the week, various media outlets received what are alleged to be ransom letters making monetary demands. Some of these letters set deadlines for Thursday evening and Monday evening. While law enforcement officials have refrained from confirming the authenticity of these letters, they have stated that all credible tips and leads are being investigated thoroughly.
As the investigation unfolds, concerns about Nancy's health have escalated. Authorities point out that she requires daily medication and has a history of serious health issues, including the presence of a pacemaker and conditions such as high blood pressure and heart problems. These health concerns add an urgent dimension to the search for her.
In the community, the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has captured significant attention, with local residents showing support. Candles were observed lit near her home over the weekend, accompanied by a sign expressing solidarity with the Guthrie family.
The situation has also attracted national interest, with reports indicating that President Donald Trump reached out to Savannah Guthrie last week to offer support. Trump has commented that there are potentially strong clues in the ongoing investigation, although specifics have not been disclosed.
As of Sunday morning, law enforcement agencies remained tight-lipped regarding further updates. The FBI spokesman confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation as the family and community continue to seek any developments regarding Nancy's whereabouts.
The video plea made by Savannah was the third such appeal issued this week, as the family continues to seek assistance from the public and any individuals who may have information related to Nancy's case. The urgency and emotional weight of the situation remain palpable as investigators work to unravel the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
