Savannah Guthrie broke down in tears on the Today show as she begged viewers for help after kidnappers alleged that her missing 84-year-old mother, Nancy, has died. The NBC presenter's mother was taken from her home earlier this year, and her whereabouts remain unknown. A ransom note has now claimed that Nancy died and offered to return her body for $4 million, though the note has not been authenticated.
Guthrie's Emotional Plea on Live Television
While discussing the latest twist in the heartbreaking story live on air, Guthrie wiped away tears and addressed viewers directly. 'I love you guys, and I love this place,' she began. 'This is unusual and unprecedented — to say the least — to be sitting here. But I can't pretend I'm not here. And so since I am, I wanted to just take the opportunity to ask people, really to beg people, to come forward. Somebody knows something.'
Guthrie continued: 'This is a new story that today is on your radar, but this is the life that my sister lives, that I live, that my brother lives, that our extended families live, that our children live every day. And we are in agony and we cannot be at peace.'
Timeline of Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance
Nancy was last seen on January 31 by her son-in-law, who dropped her off after dinner. The next day, she failed to attend church and was reported missing. Sheriff officials said they believe she did not leave her home willingly. On February 2, investigators confirmed they were analyzing an apparent ransom note. The family released an emotional video on February 7 pleading for Nancy's return, offering a $1 million reward for information. Surveillance images from Nancy's home were released on February 10, and a person was detained but released the next day.
Ransom Notes and Investigation
The first alleged ransom note demanded $4 million in Bitcoin to be sent within a few days, with the price rising to $6 million if not paid on time. The alleged kidnappers described Nancy as 'safe but scared.' However, investigators reportedly sent a far smaller sum — $152 — in an attempt to track the money, but the funds remain untouched. A subsequent note offered an 'apology' for Nancy's death and claimed her body could be delivered for $4 million, but it has not been authenticated.
No suspects have been named by police, but they are focusing on the series of ransom notes. The Pima County Sheriff's Department and Guthrie's representatives have been contacted for comment.
Family's Ongoing Agony
Referencing the ongoing investigation, Guthrie said: 'So no matter how much I try to come out here every day and to smile and find that joy — and I will, I promise I will — this is a moment to tell you that we need your help. We're begging for your help. And I'm not gonna miss that opportunity.'
The family has offered a $1 million reward for information, which Guthrie reminded viewers could be anonymous. 'Please do the right thing for us, for our family, for our children,' she concluded. 'We love our mom, and we'll never stop looking for her ever.'
