Authorities have conducted a search of Annie Guthrie’s residence as the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of TODAY co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, enters its second week.
Nancy Guthrie, aged 84, has been missing since January 31, when it is believed she was abducted from her Tucson home during the night.
Despite extensive searches, no significant clues have been found. However, various media outlets have received a ransom note demanding payment for her safe return.
The initial deadline for payment was set for 5 p.m. on February 5. FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke stated that a second deadline was given: “If a transfer wasn’t made, the second demand was for next Monday. I’m not going to go beyond that.”
On February 7, Savannah Guthrie, alongside her siblings Annie and Camron, issued a video plea, stating their willingness to pay the ransom for their mother’s safe return.
“We received your message and we understand,” Savannah said in the video. “We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”
Following the release of the video, law enforcement officers were observed at the home of Annie Guthrie and her husband, Tommaso Cioni, situated about four miles from Nancy’s residence.
It is not clear whether the search of Annie’s home was conducted with her consent or under a warrant.
During the search, which lasted over two and a half hours, officials from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department were present from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. local time.
According to PEOPLE, an officer was seen leaving the house with a white suitcase and brown bag, while another wore blue gloves.
Tracy Walder, a former CIA and FBI special agent, commented on the situation, stating that the “back and forth is of course odd and we don’t see that a lot,” while noting that various factors, like “reactions to ransom note details, new suspects emerging, request by the family, etc.” could be influencing the behavior.
In addition to the search of Annie’s home, officers revisited Nancy’s house on February 8, conducting a renewed search that included checking the septic tank and a manhole at the premises.
Currently, there are no identified suspects or persons of interest in Nancy’s disappearance.
The latest update from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department states: “The Nancy Guthrie investigation is ongoing. Follow-up continues at multiple locations. No suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles have been identified. No scheduled press briefings.”
“If any significant developments occur in the case, a press conference will be called,” the update concluded.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on the night of January 31 at her Tucson home. Her son-in-law, Cioni, had dropped her off after a dinner with him and Annie.
The family reported her missing the next day after she failed to appear at church. Concerns were heightened due to her health issues, which require regular medication to manage.
A blood trail was discovered leading from her home, which has been confirmed to belong to the missing woman.
The FBI is appealing to the public for any tips or information. They can be reached at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Office at 520-351-4900.