Co-host Hoda Kotb joined “TODAY” on Friday, detailing the national outpouring of support the Guthrie family has received amid the ongoing search for their mother and describing her personal heartbreak for her friend.
“This whole thing is breaking my heart, and I’m happy to be sitting here with you,” Kotb told her colleagues. “Everybody’s hoping and praying for Nancy’s safe return. There’s been a massive show of support, from vigils to people offering positive thoughts online and just a lot of hope.”
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Nancy Guthrie, 84, was reported missing Sunday afternoon from her home outside Tucson, Arizona, after she did not show up at church, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told NBC News. She was last seen around 9:45 p.m. the previous day, when family members dropped her off at home.
The ongoing search for Guthrie has spurred support from fans across the country, Hollywood, and the NBC family.
“The nation is rallying around our dear friend, Savannah, and her family, believing their beloved mom, Nancy, will be back soon in their loving arms,” Kotb said.
No suspects or persons of interest have been identified in the possible abduction investigation being conducted with the FBI.
Reports indicate that ransom notes referencing Guthrie have been sent to at least three news outlets. One of the reported ransom notes had a deadline of 5 p.m. Thursday. In a video statement posted near the deadline, Camron Guthrie asked to speak to “whoever is out there holding our mother,” saying the family wants to talk and is “waiting for contact.”
NBC News has not seen copies of the notes, and no law enforcement agency has substantiated news reports about them.
Kotb said Friday that Savannah Guthrie was always the first to help another colleague in need, earning nods from the co-anchors. She added there is a “helpless feeling” of being unable to help.
“We’re all so close with her, and we all want to help her,” she said. “We’ll be patient and put prayers up, and that’s all we can do.”
TODAY Show anchor Savannah Guthrie and her siblings posted a video late Wednesday, pleading for more information from the person who possibly kidnapped their 84-year-old mother.
