Friends of Nancy Guthrie have broken their silence after she mysteriously disappeared from her home, revealing they were meant to meet her on the same morning she vanished.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, the mother of TV presenter Savannah Guthrie, went missing in the early hours of 1 February from her property in Tucson, Arizona, after being dropped home by family following a quiet evening of dinner and games.
Her disappearance has now entered its second week, with investigators treating the case as a suspected abduction.
The latest comments from her friends highlight how unusual her absence was, as she was known for always showing up on time and rarely missing planned meet-ups.
Who is Nancy Guthrie?
Nancy Guthrie is an 84-year-old retired journalist and community figure, best known publicly as the mother of Savannah Guthrie, a high-profile television host.
Her disappearance has attracted widespread attention because of her daughter’s public profile and the increasingly serious nature of the investigation.
Authorities believe Nancy did not simply wander away or leave voluntarily, and they have continued to investigate the case as a potential kidnapping.
What happened that morning?
According to her close friends, Nancy had confirmed plans to join them on Sunday morning for a regular church service viewing, a tradition they had shared for years.
One friend said the group planned to watch a church service together at a friend’s home, including a small communion ritual using grape juice and wafers.
However, by 11am, Nancy still had not arrived. Friends said she was normally punctual, which immediately raised an alarm.
After several unsuccessful attempts to reach her, they contacted Nancy’s eldest daughter, who reportedly went to check the house. She found the property empty.
Why are friends speaking of her in the present tense?
In emotional comments, friends admitted they have been catching themselves speaking about Nancy in the past tense, before quickly correcting it.
They said they are reminding themselves to refer to her in the present tense because they still believe she could return alive.
It is a small detail, but it shows the strain the case has placed on those closest to her. Friends described her as someone who brought warmth into every room, and they are now clinging to memories while hoping for answers.
What kind of person do friends say Nancy Guthrie is?
Friends described Nancy Guthrie as deeply involved in her local community, known for her kindness, her strong faith, and her ability to guide others without seeking attention.
Several recalled how she taught Bible study classes for years and helped people apply faith-based lessons to everyday life.
They also said she played an active role in local causes and used her communication skills to support public campaigns when needed.
Former colleagues have described her as sharp-minded, principled, and someone who was never afraid to speak up.
Did Nancy Guthrie have any health concerns before she disappeared?
Friends said Nancy had been experiencing mobility issues in recent years, including the use of a cane and hearing aids.
They also said she had a pacemaker and relied on daily medication, meaning her disappearance raises serious concerns about her health and safety.
Despite these challenges, friends insisted she remained mentally sharp and socially active. She continued attending book clubs and maintained close friendships.
What is police activity focusing on right now?
Investigators have continued searching for physical evidence and potential surveillance footage linked to Nancy’s disappearance.
Authorities have reportedly been analysing items recovered from the area, while also reviewing neighbourhood video footage. Police have also been canvassing the area for witnesses and suspicious vehicle sightings.
Police have also questioned a potential lead in the case, with reports suggesting officers have briefly detained a person of interest
As enquiries continue.
The investigation remains active, and officers have continued appealing to the public for information.
Why does this case matter beyond the United States?
Although this case is based in Arizona, it has drawn international attention due to the public profile of Nancy’s daughter and the worrying nature of the circumstances.
For UK audiences, the story highlights how vulnerable elderly people can be in missing-person cases, especially when health conditions and medication needs may limit survival time.
It has also sparked wider discussion online about home security, neighbourhood surveillance, and how quickly disappearances can unfold without immediate warning.
