Investigators say no suspect yet in kidnapping of Savannah Guthrie’s mother

The Pima County Sheriff’s Office announced that it has not yet identified a suspect in connection with the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie from her Arizona home, calling unverified accusations “irresponsible” amid their investigation.

“At this point, investigators have not identified a suspect or person of interest. Detectives continue to speak with anyone who may have had contact with Mrs. Guthrie,” Sheriff Chris Nanos said in a statement released on Wednesday morning. “Detectives are working closely with the Guthrie family. While we appreciate the public’s concern, the sharing of unverified accusations or false information is irresponsible and does not assist the investigation.”

Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, is believed to have been taken from her home against her will in a possible kidnapping. She was last seen on January 31 at her Tucson home and was reported missing the following day by her family. Police revealed that blood and signs of forced entry were found in her home.

On Tuesday, FBI agents were seen at Savannah’s sister Annie’s home in Arizona. Annie was the last person who saw Nancy after they had dinner together on Saturday night, according to TMZ.

The sheriff’s office’s statement comes amid allegations that Annie’s husband, Tommaso Cioni, had been identified by police as a possible suspect. The claim was reported on Tuesday by independent journalist Ashleigh Banfield, who said it came from a law enforcement source. Banfield also reported that investigators towed Annie’s car, which has “some connection” to Cioni, and that all the cameras at Guthrie’s home were smashed.

The FBI is currently investigating whether an alleged ransom note from an unknown person sent to TMZ demanding payment for Guthrie’s release is authentic. The ransom reportedly mentioned specific aspects of Guthrie’s home and included an active Bitcoin wallet where funds could be deposited.