Additional Coverage:
- Hoda Kotb joins ‘TODAY’ amid Guthrie investigation: ‘This whole thing is breaking my heart’ (nbcnews.com)
Nation Rallies Around Guthrie Family as Search for Nancy Continues
The nation’s collective heart is heavy as the search for Nancy Guthrie, mother of “TODAY” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, intensifies. Co-host Hoda Kotb shared on Friday the overwhelming outpouring of support the Guthrie family has received, expressing her personal anguish over the ongoing situation.
“This whole thing is breaking my heart,” Kotb shared with her colleagues. “Everybody’s hoping and praying for Nancy’s safe return. There’s been a massive show of support, from vigils to people offering positive thoughts online and just a lot of hope.”
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was reported missing last Sunday afternoon from her home just outside Tucson, Arizona, after failing to appear at church. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos informed NBC News that she was last seen the previous evening around 9:45 p.m. when family members dropped her off at home.
The extensive search for Guthrie has garnered support from fans across the country, members of Hollywood, and the entire NBC family. “The nation is rallying around our dear friend, Savannah, and her family, believing their beloved mom, Nancy, will be back soon in their loving arms,” Kotb affirmed.
Authorities, including the FBI, are investigating a possible abduction. No suspects or persons of interest have been identified at this time. NBC News has reviewed what authorities describe as a possible ransom note sent to three news organizations, and its contents align with descriptions provided by the FBI and the media outlets.
One of the reported ransom notes set a deadline of 5 p.m. Thursday. In a video statement released near that deadline, Camron Guthrie, Nancy’s son, directly addressed “whoever is out there holding our mother,” stating the family’s desire to communicate and expressing that they are “waiting for contact.”
Kotb highlighted Savannah Guthrie’s consistent willingness to assist colleagues in need, a sentiment echoed by her fellow anchors. She described the “helpless feeling” of being unable to directly intervene.
“We’re all so close with her, and we all want to help her,” Kotb said. “We’ll be patient and put prayers up, and that’s all we can do.”