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Criticism Surrounds Guthrie Family's Response to Mother's Disappearance

2/21/2026, 3:13:41 AM

Overview of the Disappearance

Nancy Guthrie, an 84-year-old woman and mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie, went missing from her Arizona home on January 31, 2023. The case has escalated into a kidnapping investigation, with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI, involved in the search. Authorities have released doorbell footage of a suspect and are investigating reported ransom notes sent to media outlets.

Public Scrutiny of the Guthrie Family

In a recent episode of "The Megyn Kelly Show," host Megyn Kelly and podcaster Zack Peter raised concerns regarding the Guthrie family's public engagement in the search for Nancy. They noted the family's minimal visibility, questioning why they have not participated in search efforts or held prayer vigils. Peter remarked, “There’s no press conferences; we’re not seeing them out searching for their mother,” expressing growing curiosity about the family's actions during the investigation.

Kelly echoed Peter's sentiments, stating, “We have seen so little of the Guthries,” and emphasized the absence of public updates or community involvement from the family. The lack of a coordinated public effort has led to speculation about the family's commitment to finding Nancy.

Criticism of Law Enforcement's Handling

The investigation has also faced scrutiny, particularly regarding the demeanor of Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos. Critics, including Peter, have described Nanos' recent interviews as “monotone” and lacking urgency. Peter criticized the sheriff for declaring the crime scene “done” early in the investigation, which raised questions about the thoroughness of the ongoing search efforts.

Shifts in Family Communication

Savannah Guthrie has made several public appeals for her mother's return, but Peter noted a shift in the tone of her messages. Initially, the family seemed open to discussing ransom payments, but later updates appeared to focus more on pleading for Nancy's safe return without addressing the ransom situation. Peter expressed confusion over this change, stating, “The tone of the videos completely changes,” and questioned the family's strategy in communicating with the public.

Official Statements & Responses

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has cleared the Guthrie family of any wrongdoing related to Nancy's disappearance. Sheriff Nanos has cautioned against “cruel” targeting of the family, emphasizing that they are not suspects in the case. Savannah Guthrie has publicly stated, “It is never too late to do the right thing,” urging anyone with information to come forward.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

While the investigation continues, there are discrepancies in public perception regarding the family's involvement and the urgency of the search. Some observers feel that the family's lack of visibility is concerning, while others believe that the family's privacy should be respected during this difficult time. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to seek leads in the case.