Nancy Guthrie’s captor 'had a target', sheriff says as investigation intensifies

Authorities investigating the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie say the suspect who abducted her may have deliberately singled her out, according to new details shared by local law enforcement.

The 84-year-old mother of broadcaster Savannah Guthrie was reported missing from her home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona, in late January. Officials have since confirmed that evidence from the residence suggests she was taken against her will, and investigators believe the abduction was not random.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said in a recent update that there are indications the person responsible “had a target,” pointing to a level of planning in the crime. Authorities have not publicly identified a suspect but say they are pursuing multiple leads and continuing an active search.

Guthrie was last seen on the evening of January 31 after being dropped off at her home by a family member. When she failed to appear at a scheduled church service the following morning, relatives went to check on her and discovered she was missing. Her belongings, including her phone, were still inside the house, a detail that immediately raised alarm given her limited mobility.

Law enforcement has conducted extensive search operations in and around the Catalina Foothills area, at times pausing to allow personnel to rest while continuing investigative work behind the scenes. Officials have said there is no indication of a broader threat to the public.

Savannah Guthrie stepped away from her professional duties to assist in the search for her mother, previously thanking law enforcement and members of the public for their support and urging anyone with information to come forward.

As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with relevant tips or sightings to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department as they work to locate Nancy Guthrie and determine who is responsible for her disappearance.