On February 8, 2026, CBS News reported a sincere plea made by “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie regarding the abduction of her mother, Nancy Guthrie, from her Tucson, Arizona, home. In a heartfelt video released on Saturday, Savannah, alongside her siblings Camron and Annie, expressed their willingness to pay for their mother’s safe return.
In the video shared on her social media, Savannah stated, “We received your message and we understand. 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.” This message comes as local and federal authorities acknowledge a recent message related to the disappearance, though its specifics remain unclear.
According to Heith Janke, the special agent in charge at the FBI’s Phoenix field office, the abductors issued a ransom note demanding payment in bitcoin, with an initial deadline of 5 p.m. Thursday. The note outlines a secondary deadline set for next Monday should the first demand remain unmet.
Jason Pack, a retired FBI supervisory agent and hostage negotiator, praised Guthrie’s composed delivery during the family’s challenging time, highlighting her strategic word choice of “celebrate”. “That’s the language of resolution, not confrontation,” Pack stated to CBS News. “In negotiations, offering a positive and peaceful outcome perspective is key, which the family is effectively doing.”
Law enforcement efforts remain underway, with a Pima County Sheriff’s Department vehicle stationed outside Nancy Guthrie’s home as of Sunday. Authorities continued the search in Tucson’s Catalina Foothills on Saturday, yet no suspects or vehicles linked to the case have been identified.
Investigators have towed Nancy Guthrie’s car from the premises, inspecting it for fingerprints and potential clues. Additionally, a camera from the home’s rooftop has been removed for examination. A CBS News team observed deputies at Annie Guthrie’s residence Saturday night capturing photographs of the garage area.
The FBI has declared a $50,000 reward for anyone providing information that could lead to Nancy Guthrie’s safe recovery or the prosecution of those responsible for her disappearance. Those with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s tip line at 520-351-4900.
Reporter Chris St. Peter also contributed to this coverage.