Nancy Guthrie update: Search intensifies as family seeks security and answers

The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of television anchor Savannah Guthrie, widened over the weekend as investigators expanded their focus beyond the missing person report and addressed growing concerns about her health. On Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026 (ET), authorities confirmed a heightened security posture around Nancy Guthrie’s home in Tucson, Arizona, while also continuing to review disputed communications tied to the case, including messages described as ransom-related.

What’s confirmed about her disappearance

Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on Feb. 1, 2026, after she did not show up for church. Investigators have said she was last seen the night of Jan. 31 after dinner with family members. Her disappearance has prompted a large, multi-agency search effort and an ongoing criminal investigation.

Authorities have not publicly identified a suspect or a vehicle connected to her disappearance. They have continued to urge the public to share any credible information, particularly tips tied to sightings, unusual activity near the home, or any relevant surveillance footage from the surrounding area.

Security steps at her home and the expanding search

In the most visible operational change, law enforcement confirmed a police presence would be maintained at Nancy Guthrie’s home for security. The move followed family concerns about protecting the property and preserving the scene as investigators continue to process information and follow leads.

Search activity has also included attention to areas around the residence, including infrastructure access points in the neighborhood, as investigators attempt to account for every plausible route or location connected to the disappearance. Officials have not said publicly what, if anything, those efforts have yielded so far.

Ransom-style messages and what’s unclear

Multiple communications described as ransom-related have circulated publicly, but authorities have cautioned that authenticity is not confirmed. Officials have indicated they are evaluating the credibility of such messages and have warned that high-profile cases often attract hoaxes.

Savannah Guthrie and her family released a short public message over the weekend directed at whoever may have information about her mother’s whereabouts, signaling willingness to do what it takes to secure her safe return. Investigators have continued to advise caution, noting that decisions around any demand are sensitive and fact-dependent, and that the priority remains a safe outcome.

Health concerns are rising

A central urgency driver in the case is Nancy Guthrie’s reported medical needs. Authorities and family members have raised concern that she requires daily medication and has cardiac-related health issues, including reliance on a pacemaker. Officials have stressed that time matters, and they have framed the search as a race against the clock if she is without necessary care.

Investigators have not publicly confirmed her current condition or location, and they have not provided a specific medical timeline. The practical implication remains: any credible lead should be treated as urgent.

What investigators have done so far

Authorities have described an investigation that includes extensive field work, interviews, and the review of digital and physical evidence. That work has included:

• A continuing canvass for surveillance footage in the area

• Follow-up searches connected to close geographic and personal proximity

• Analysis of communications and tips for consistency and credibility

Law enforcement has not announced arrests in connection with Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, and they have said the case remains active with multiple lines of inquiry.

What the public can do now

Officials have repeatedly emphasized that community information can matter most in the early window of a case. Anyone who was in the vicinity of Nancy Guthrie’s neighborhood on Jan. 31 or Feb. 1, or who has doorbell-camera footage from that timeframe, may hold details investigators have not yet seen.

If you believe you have a credible tip, the best course is to contact local law enforcement or federal authorities directly rather than posting publicly. Public speculation can complicate investigations and spread misinformation, particularly when unverified “ransom note” claims circulate online.

As of Sunday evening, Feb. 8, 2026 (ET), officials have not announced a resolution, and the family’s public posture underscores that the search remains urgent and ongoing.

Sources consulted: The Washington Post, Associated Press, ABC News, People