Search For NBC Anchor's Kidnapped Mother Enters Second Week As Ransom Deadline Nears

Authorities investigating the apparent kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie returned to her Arizona neighbourhood several times over the weekend, ahead of a Monday evening deadline set by her purported abductors, who sent ransom notes demanding money for her return.

The search for the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie has entered its second week, with no confirmation of whether she is still alive.

Over the weekend, Savannah Guthrie said the family was prepared to pay for her mother’s safe return.

“We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her,” she said in a video posted on Saturday. “This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”

The disappearance has drawn intense

public attention across the United States, from President Donald Trump, who spoke with Savannah Guthrie last week, to online sleuths sharing tips, theories and rumours on social media.

Outside Nancy Guthrie’s home on Monday, neighbours continued their morning walks and jogs while a county sheriff’s deputy remained stationed nearby.

Detectives and agents carried out follow-up work at multiple locations over the weekend, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department said on Sunday. “Investigators have not identified any suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles connected to this case,” the department added.

Authorities believe Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will from her home just outside Tucson. She was last seen on 31 January and reported missing the next day after failing to attend church services. DNA tests showed blood on her front porch matched hers, Sheriff Chris Nanos said.

Multiple media outlets have received alleged ransom letters in recent days. At least one letter included a monetary demand and a deadline. The first deadline passed last Thursday, while a second was set for Monday. Officials have not confirmed whether the letters are credible but said all tips are being investigated.

Investigators are increasingly concerned for Nancy Guthrie’s health. She requires daily medication and has a pacemaker, as well as a history of high blood pressure and heart problems, according to sheriff’s dispatcher audio.

(With inputs from AP)