Recent comments from commentator Megyn Kelly have intensified scrutiny around the ongoing investigation into the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC’s Today show host Savannah Guthrie. Kelly hinted that one of Nancy’s daughters may possess undisclosed information that could be crucial to the case, raising questions as investigators work to uncover the truth behind her disappearance.
Background on the Kidnapping Case
Nancy Guthrie, 84 years old, disappeared from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1, 2026. She was last seen at approximately 21:45 local time. Alarm was raised by church members the following day when she failed to attend services. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos quickly declared the residence a crime scene after discovering blood drops and signs of forced entry, shifting the focus from a search-and-rescue operation to a criminal investigation.
Initial investigative efforts included the use of drones, helicopters, and canine units. By the second day, attention turned to forensic evidence and surveillance footage. Doorbell camera footage from her Nest device captured an intruder dressed in ski gear attempting to obscure the camera lens while armed with a holster and backpack. The assailant stole the camera but left behind critical evidence, including over a dozen discarded gloves in the vicinity, one of which matched the footage.
The urgency of the situation is heightened by Nancy’s limited mobility and dependence on medication. Authorities have emphasized that time is of the essence in this case, as they continue to search for her.
Key Evidence and Investigation Developments
Investigators have identified the suspect’s backpack as a 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack from Walmart, a detail that may aid in their inquiries. Additionally, they noted that the assailant was using a universal holster that did not fit properly. New leads indicate that the suspect may have been surveilling the area prior to the incident; an image released by the FBI shows the masked individual at the scene the day before the kidnapping, possibly disturbed by the camera before returning to disable it.
Forensic evidence, including blood samples and potential DNA from the gloves, has been collected. However, there have been frustrations regarding the delays in testing. Law enforcement is also reviewing genetic genealogy data and monitoring phone pings along known routes between Tucson and the border. Community surveillance footage from the previous month is under examination, accounting for the high number of tips received—over 2,500—as of mid-February.
In a notable development, Savannah Guthrie has raised the reward for information leading to her mother’s recovery to $1 million. During a public plea, she expressed her fears that her mother “might be already gone,” emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The last recorded data from Nancy’s pacemaker pinged on February 28, suggesting she was taken alive initially.
The statistics surrounding kidnappings in the U.S. reveal a concerning trend; adult kidnappings average under 100 cases annually, with abductions of the elderly often linked to opportunists or stalkers. In Pima County, there were 450 missing persons cases reported in 2025, but Nancy’s case has garnered significant attention, including federal support from the FBI.
Controversial Theories and Public Reactions
On her SiriusXM show, Megyn Kelly analyzed the details of the case, suggesting alternative narratives, including theories of murder or a hoax. Kelly criticized those allegedly seeking ransom—reportedly around $6 million—and raised concerns about the legitimacy of claims made without personal family references. She implied that one of Nancy’s daughters “knows more,” hinting at potential family insights or inconsistencies in the timeline, such as a missing hour prior to the police being notified.
Kelly’s comments have sparked a mix of support and backlash, with some labeling her statements as misinformation. Nevertheless, she defends her approach, insisting that scrutiny should extend to all involved, including family members.
Speculation surrounding the case ranges from a burglary that escalated into violence to possible stalking scenarios, given the reported prior visits to the home. Despite law enforcement’s efforts, no arrests have been made following a recent detainment. The sheriff’s office is investigating possible harassment angles without publicly naming any suspects, though family members, including Savannah and her brother Cameron, remain on the periphery.
As of February 25, 2026, nearly four weeks have passed since Nancy Guthrie’s abduction. The significant reward and emerging evidence provide a glimmer of hope for resolution, yet Megyn Kelly’s insinuations highlight the complexities within family dynamics at this critical time. With DNA results pending and tips continuing to flow in, the resolution of this case may depend heavily on technological advancements and public cooperation. Authorities urge anyone with relevant footage or information to come forward, emphasizing the need for transparency in this ongoing investigation.
