Savannah Guthrie Makes Emotional Plea for Mother's Safe Return
In a heartfelt video posted on Instagram, US television news host Savannah Guthrie has directly addressed the potential kidnappers of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, stating that her family "will pay" for her safe return. The emotional appeal, made alongside her siblings Cameron and Annie, comes over a week after Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home near Tucson, Arizona, on the evening of 31 January.
Details of the Disappearance and Investigation
Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on 1 February after failing to attend church, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has since concluded that she was kidnapped, though no suspects or persons of interest have been identified in the case. This development has left authorities and the family grappling with a "huge mystery," as described by Sky's US correspondent Martha Kelner.
In the video, Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of NBC News Today, expressed the family's desperation, saying, "We received your message and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us, so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay." This statement refers to a message sent to the Tucson-based television station KOLD on Friday, according to Kevin Smith, a spokesperson for the FBI office in Phoenix.
Ransom Notes and Media Involvement
KOLD confirmed receiving an email related to the Guthrie case via social media but declined to disclose details as the FBI reviews its contents. This station was among several news outlets, including Sky's US partner network NBC News, that received alleged ransom letters during the week. NBC News has verified reviewing a copy of the note, though no law enforcement agency has substantiated it yet.
Investigators note that the sender appears to have used the same secure server to hide their IP address, with the new note intended to signal to authorities that it originates from the same individual or group as the original communication. This adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Police are actively searching for one or more vehicles that may be connected to Nancy Guthrie's disappearance. In a recent development, officers visited a Circle K convenience store after receiving a tip about a vehicle of interest, with the store's team providing access to surveillance video. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has been contacted for further comment, but the case remains open with few leads.
The Guthrie family's public plea underscores the urgency and emotional toll of the situation, as they await any breakthrough in the search for their beloved mother.
