The disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie, has evolved into a criminal investigation following the discovery of evidence suggesting a forced removal from her Arizona home. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, with law enforcement altering their operational focus in response to new findings.
Authorities were called to Nancy Guthrie's residence and, upon inspection, noticed that her personal electronic devices, including her phone and Apple Watch, were left behind. This detail, alongside evidence of forced entry and blood within the home, raised immediate concerns about her voluntary departure. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, in a recent statement, highlighted a shift from search operations to investigative measures, underscoring the critical nature of the situation.
Adding to the complexity of the case is the cessation of communication between Nancy Guthrie's implanted pacemaker and her synced Apple devices around 2 a.m. on the day of her disappearance. This digital evidence is crucial in establishing a timeline for the incident and could help investigators understand the events that transpired that night.
Nancy Guthrie's need for regular medication amplifies the urgency of the investigation. Sheriff Nanos expressed the gravity of her extended absence and the risks associated with her health, given that she has been missing for over 48 hours.
The community and law enforcement are mobilizing to find Nancy Guthrie, with a press conference hastily arranged for Tuesday at approximately 11:30 a.m. local time. This briefing aims to update the public and media on the progress and findings of the investigation.
Savannah Guthrie has been absent from her usual broadcasting duties, instead turning to social media to seek support and prayers for her mother's safe return. A recent Instagram post by Savannah Guthrie called for collective prayer, indicating the family's reliance on faith during this challenging time. Similarly, Yashar Ali, a journalist and social media influencer, shared Savannah Guthrie's message, further publicizing the plea for assistance in locating Nancy Guthrie.
As the Pima County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate, the case has garnered national attention due to Savannah Guthrie's prominence in the media industry. Her family's plight and the mysterious circumstances surrounding her mother's disappearance remain at the forefront of current concerns, with the public and law enforcement hoping for a swift and positive resolution.