The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today Show anchor Savannah Guthrie, has escalated amid concerns for her safety. Over 100 officials from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI have been deployed in the manhunt as tips and leads pour in nationwide, but the investigation has faced troubling developments.
Recently, a viral claim suggesting that an unidentified female body resembling Nancy Guthrie had been found has caused a stir online. This rumor was fueled by a video circulating on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, which purportedly detailed the discovery of the body. According to the post, the clothing description matched what Nancy wore before her disappearance.
However, the authenticity of this claim was quickly challenged. Viewers noted that the video appeared to be generated by artificial intelligence and originated from a dubious source. Many social media users expressed skepticism, with one commenter asking, “If it isn’t her, who’s this woman?” This incident illustrates how sensational misinformation can spread rapidly in high-profile cases, intensifying public anxiety and confusion. Authorities have since confirmed that no body linked to Nancy’s case has been discovered.
The investigation reached a critical point when the FBI released new footage on February 10, 2026, showing a potential suspect near Nancy’s home. The video, captured by a doorbell camera, shows a masked individual with gloves and a holstered firearm. Savannah Guthrie shared these images on social media, appealing for public assistance in identifying the man. Law enforcement described the suspect as being between 5 feet 9 inches and 5 feet 10 inches tall, with an average build, and he was seen carrying a backpack.
Although speculation regarding the suspect has emerged, particularly focusing on Nancy’s son-in-law Tommaso Cioni, officials have not confirmed a suspect. Investigators have indicated that the Guthrie family has been cooperative throughout the process, with Sheriff Chris Nanos affirming their support for the search efforts.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31, 2026, after being dropped off at her home in Tucson. The following morning, investigators discovered an empty residence that appeared to be the scene of a crime, leading them to believe that she had been abducted. Since her disappearance, the FBI has received over 13,000 tips, and a command post in the area continues to collect and pursue leads. A reward for information regarding her whereabouts has been increased to USD 100,000.
As the investigation unfolds, there have been reports of ransom notes demanding millions of dollars in Bitcoin sent to various media outlets. Savannah and her siblings have stated their willingness to pay a ransom for their mother’s safe return, although there is no confirmation of any payment being made, nor are the legitimacy of the ransom demands confirmed by authorities.
In a significant development, DNA recovered from Nancy’s home has been analyzed and reportedly does not match hers or anyone close to her. This DNA is undergoing further testing to explore possible leads. The search continues, and the public remains hopeful for any information that could lead to Nancy’s safe recovery.