Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Missing 84-Year-Old Nancy Guthrie: Ransom Demand Sparks Concern

3/20/2026

43 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Sara Haines expressed deep concern as the search for Nancy Guthrie continues.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen on January 31 in Tucson, Arizona, and has been missing since.
Authorities are investigating her disappearance, and a ransom demand reportedly has been made.
Savannah Guthrie has stepped away from Today to focus on her family, while Sara Haines and other colleagues provide support.

History

Historical Context

The 1979 abduction of six-year-old Etan Patz in New York City ignited a national outcry, leading to the establishment of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children in 1984. This case, alongside the 1981 murder of Adam Walsh, fueled a moral panic around child safety, influencing public policy and community awareness regarding missing children, a concern that remains relevant today.

1 of 2

Story summary

Sara Haines expressed deep concern as the search for Nancy Guthrie continues.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen on January 31 in Tucson, Arizona, and has been missing since.
Authorities are investigating her disappearance, and a ransom demand reportedly has been made.
Savannah Guthrie has stepped away from Today to focus on her family, while Sara Haines and other colleagues provide support.

1 / 2