Police Break Silence on Suspect Amid Search for Savannah Guthrie's Mother Nancy

The search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today Show host Savannah Guthrie, continues after the 84-year-old was taken from her home against her will sometime between 9:45 p.m. ET on Saturday and Sunday morning.

Guthrie failed to show up for church, leading to a search of her home and a subsequent call to police, who believe she was abducted.

“I believe she was abducted, yes,” Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said. “She didn’t walk from there. She didn’t go willingly.” In a news conference, the sheriff revealed, “It is a crime scene. We know that… We do have a crime.” He added, “She did not leave on her own. We know that.”

Pima County Sheriff's Office Breaks Silence on Suspect

Previous reports noted Guthrie had dinner with her daughter Annie and her son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, who live nearby, the night she disappeared. Cioni dropped her off and ensured she made it inside safely before leaving, Nanos revealed.

Late Tuesday, Feb. 3 NewsNation journalist Ashleigh Banfield alleged that Cioni may be a suspect or person of interest in Guthrie’s disappearance. TMZ also reported Cioni as a potential suspect, leading to widespread speculation on social media.

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, the Pima County Sheriff's Office made it clear no suspect or person of interest has been identified.

"At this point, investigators have not identified a suspect or person of interest in this case. Detectives continue to speak with anyone who may have had contact with Mrs. Guthrie," a statement from the department read. "Detectives are working closely with the Guthrie family. While we appreciate the public’s concern, the sharing of unverified accusations or false information is irresponsible and does not assist the investigation. No suspect or person of interest has been identified at this time."

Statement on the Nancy Guthrie investigation - pic.twitter.com/81w1qPXPNx

— Pima County Sheriff's Department (@PimaSheriff) February 4, 2026

Ransom Note Leaks

The Pima County Sheriff’s Office previously said it was “aware of reports circulating about a possible ransom note(s),” adding that the department had received a copy of a ransom note and was working with the FBI to validate it.

A local Arizona CBS affiliate first received the not and agreed not to report on it after consultation with Nanos. It allegedly contained details about the home and what Nancy Guthrie was wearing that night, details the sheriff's office refused to confirm.

"It's like any piece of evidence," Nanos told CBS News. "You give it to us, you give us a lead, we're going to look at every aspect of that lead."

Savannah Guthrie Won't Cover Olympics

After learning of her mother's disappearance, Savannah Guthrie took to social media to ask for prayers as the search continues.

“We believe in prayer. We believe in voices raised in unison, in love, in hope. We believe in goodness. We believe in humanity. Above all, we believe in Him,” she said. “Thank you for lifting your prayers with ours for our beloved mom, our dearest Nancy, a woman of deep conviction, a good and faithful servant. Raise your prayers with us and believe with us that she will be lifted by them in this very moment.”

As the search rolls on, NBC revealed Guthrie won't be participating in Winter Olympics coverage this month.

“Savannah will not be joining us at the Olympics as she focuses on being with her family during this difficult time,” an NBC spokesperson said. “Our hearts are with her and the entire Guthrie family as the search continues for their mother. We will share additional information about our Opening Ceremony coverage plans soon.”

Related: Roku Quietly Adds 9 New Free Channels for Customers