Authorities 'aware' of reports of possible ransom note in Nancy Guthrie disappearance

A source intimately connected with the Guthrie family is challenging recent reports regarding the circumstances of Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance on Sunday, February 1. According to the source, essential aspects of the timeline have been inaccurately portrayed in the media.

Initial reports suggested that Nancy was expected at an in-person church service in Tucson on that morning, and her absence led to her being reported missing. However, the family source clarified that this narrative does not align with the facts.

In reality, for several years, Nancy had been following a different Sunday routine. Stemming from changes made during the COVID-19 pandemic, she and a close-knit group of friends had foregone traditional church attendance. Instead, they gathered at each other’s homes to watch a livestream of a New York-based church service.

This particular service was broadcast from the church attended by Savannah Guthrie, the well-known “TODAY” show co-anchor and Nancy’s daughter. This Sunday tradition had become a staple for Nancy and her friends.

Nancy Guthrie and Savannah Guthrie posing together for a photo.

On February 1, Nancy was expected at a friend’s home for their usual viewing of the service. Her absence that morning raised alarms among the group, prompting their concern and subsequent actions.

On Sunday, Feb. 1, Nancy was expected to be at a friend’s home to watch the livestream, as she had done every week. When she failed to arrive, members of the friend group became concerned.

According to the source, one of the friends contacted Annie — Nancy’s daughter and Savannah Guthrie’s sister — to report that Nancy had not shown up and could not be located.

The source emphasized that Nancy was never scheduled to attend a Tucson church service that day, contrary to some reports, and said the misunderstanding has led to confusion about the circumstances surrounding when she was first reported missing.

Police car in front of Nancy's house.

A Pima County Sheriff Department vehicle is parked out front of Nancy Guthrie’s home on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026 in Tucson, Ariz.  (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

As the search intensified, Savannah Guthrie made an emotional public plea for help, describing the situation as an “hour of desperation” as authorities investigated an alleged ransom note tied to her mother’s disappearance.

Savannah urged anyone with information to come forward as investigators worked against a looming deadline outlined in the note, which authorities have not publicly authenticated.

The final deadline outlined in the alleged ransom note passed Monday night without any proof of life or resolution.

FBI agents canvassing a residential neighborhood near Nancy Guthrie's home.

FBI agents canvass homes near Nancy Guthrie’s home in Tucson, Friday, Feb. 6, 2026. Guthrie was last seen on Saturday night as an investigation into her disappearance continues. (Kat Ramirez for Fox News Digital)

At the same time, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department said it was pursuing what it described as “new leads” in the case, but confirmed investigators have not identified any suspects, persons of interest or vehicles connected to Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance.

“The investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance remains active and ongoing,” a spokesperson for the Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirmed Monday evening.

“We understand the significant public interest in this case; however, investigators need time and space to do their work. If and when relevant information becomes available, it will be shared,” the spokesperson added.

The department said there are no press briefings scheduled at this time, but noted a press conference would be called if a significant development occurs.

Sheriff’s officials also confirmed an active law enforcement presence will continue at the Guthrie residences through the night and into Tuesday as part of the ongoing investigation, including expanded search efforts and follow-up on new leads.

“To preserve the integrity of this criminal investigation, details of that process are not being released at this time,” authorities said.

Officials emphasized the scale of the public response so far.

“Thousands of calls have been received across multiple tip lines, and investigators continue to review them,” the spokesperson said.

Anyone who believes they have information that may assist investigators is asked to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department non-emergency line at 520-351-4900, or 88-CRIME.

Stepheny Price covers crime, including missing persons, homicides and migrant crime. Send story tips to stepheny.price@fox.com.

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