Neighbors of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, say they are stunned by her sudden disappearance and are holding out hope that she will be found safely as authorities continue an intensive investigation.
The community in the Catalina Foothills area of Tucson, Arizona, has been closely following the search for Nancy — who has been missing since the evening of Jan. 31, 2026 — and many residents describe the situation as unlike anything their quiet neighborhood has ever experienced.
Nancy’s Neighbors React
Neighbors of Nancy spoke with PEOPLE and expressed nothing but kind words about the mother of three.
“She is very sweet,” one neighbor said. “The first time I went over and introduced myself to her she just welcomed me in.”
Others expressed that many in the community are “in complete shock” and deeply concerned.
One neighbor noted how Nancy seemed to be very happy and was frequently active.
“She was active. We would see her driving. She seemed engaged. We’d see her in the front yard and she seemed very happy,” the source said.
A Community Unsettled & United
The response from neighbors has been a mix of fear, confusion and heartfelt support.
Many described the tight-knit community as generally calm and safe, making the sudden disappearance of one of their own all the more unsettling.
Residents say they are anxious for answers and remain hopeful that Nancy will be found alive, reflecting their respect and affection for a woman they have known for years.
Local volunteers and residents have also been participating in search efforts — reviewing home surveillance footage, sharing information with law enforcement, and keeping an eye out while walking through the neighborhood.
The collective reaction underscores how deeply Nancy is missed and how strongly neighbors want to contribute to finding her.
Law Enforcement Continues Investigation
Meanwhile, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department is treating Nancy’s disappearance as a criminal investigation.
Officials have revealed that her household was processed as a crime scene, and they have urged anyone in the area with relevant information to come forward.
Because Nancy has limited mobility and requires daily medication, law enforcement officials have said they are especially concerned for her safety and well-being.
Although no suspects have been publicly identified, investigators continue to follow leads and appeal to the public for help.
Sheriff Chris Nanos has emphasized that while the case is serious, there is still reason to hope that Nancy could be located and returned to her family safely.
