In brief
A week after the reported kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' host Savannah Guthrie, investigation efforts are escalating. In a heartfelt video, Savannah appealed to the kidnappers, indicating the family was ready to pay for Nancy's safe return. Authorities are analyzing DNA evidence found at Nancy's home, and investigators are taking ransom letters seriously, with Savannah's family remaining hopeful for her safe return despite growing concerns about her health.
TUCSON, Ariz. (RTW) — The urgent investigation into the apparent kidnapping of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie continued Sunday, a week after the mother of 'Today' show host Savannah Guthrie was reported missing in Arizona.Savannah Guthrie solemnly told the potential kidnappers in a social media video released Saturday that the family was prepared to pay for her safe return. Flanked by her siblings, Guthrie said, 'we received your message' and emphasized, 'This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.'An FBI spokesman confirmed that Savannah was referencing a message sent to the Tucson-based television station KOLD on Friday. However, the station has not disclosed details about the message’s content due to the ongoing investigation.Investigators suspect that Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will from her home near Tucson the previous weekend. DNA tests confirmed that blood found on Nancy’s front porch belonged to her, as stated by Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos.Various media outlets have reported that they received alleged ransom letters within the past week. At least one of these letters outlined monetary demands and set deadlines. Law enforcement officials have been careful not to confirm the credibility of these letters but are taking all tips and leads very seriously.Nancy Guthrie's disappearance has captured national attention, with many expressing support through candles and messages near her home. Concerns are mounting for her health, given she requires daily medication and has a pacemaker, as reported in audio recordings from the sheriff's dispatcher. Authorities continue their investigation as they seek to locate Nancy Guthrie and bring her home safely.
