Concern continues to grow in the case of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, who has now been missing from her home for more than a week.
The elderly woman is the mother of journalist Savannah Guthrie, who has publicly begged for her safe return as authorities work around the clock to locate her.
In an emotional video shared online, Savannah spoke directly to supporters and the wider community, revealing the toll the disappearance has taken on her family.
Savannah Guthrie Speaks Out
Savannah said: "I wanted to share my thoughts as we enter into another week in this nightmare. Thank you so much for the prayers and the love we have felt, my sister and brother and I.
"And that our mom has felt. She was taken and we don't know where... We need your help. No matter where you are, even if you are from Tucson... We are at an hour of desperation."
Her plea continued with a message of faith and urgency.
"Because we believe that somehow, some way, she is feeling these prayers, and that God is lifting her in this moment and in this darkest place.
"We need your help, law enforcement is working round the clock tirelessly to try to find you."
As the days pass without answers, questions surrounding what happened to Nancy — and why — have only intensified.
Anti-Human Trafficking Advocate Raises Concerns Over Multiple Ransom Messages
Robynne Jeisman, founder of Turntable, a nonprofit organization focused on anti-human trafficking and gang violence prevention, has shared their perspective on the developing situation, per the Mirror.
One of the most troubling aspects of the case, according to Robynne, is the emergence of multiple ransom messages that have reportedly been sent to various media outlets.
Drawing on their experience, Robynne explained what that could signal.
"In my experience, multiple ransom messages means the kidnappers are not feeling heard, not getting what they want. Someone higher than them could be adding pressure (if there’s more than one person on the ransom request)," she said.
She noted that kidnappings can involve layered structures within criminal groups, which may complicate demands and communication.
"There can be multiple people involved in a gang or kidnapping (levels or tiers) so this can impact the demand, as people are people, and even in these situations, they may not be in full agreement."
The presence of multiple messages could suggest internal pressure or shifting dynamics among those involved.
Organized or Impulsive? What the Signs Could Reveal
Robynne also addressed whether the situation appears to be calculated or spontaneous, pointing to two key factors often seen in ransom cases.
She said: "In my experience, there are two things to consider. The status, influence, power or wealth of the person the ransom is requested from.
"And who is the person who was abducted in relation to that person?
"They’re trying to send a message to the person or family they want the ransom from. It could also be send a message to the organisational company, for example.
"Trying to get power back whether that through a message or money, commonly the old saying 'money talks' it’s not even often about money, but about a justice or a message or a resolution within that perpetrators mind."
According to Robynne, ransom demands are not always purely financial. In some cases, they may reflect a deeper psychological motive or an attempt to assert control.
"It’s multifaceted, every story is different, but the psychology of the scenario is imperative to get to the bottom of. Abductions are almost rarely impulsive, typically organised."
Their assessment suggests that cases like this often involve planning and coordination rather than spur-of-the-moment decisions.
The Most Critical Factor: Nancy’s Safe Return
Despite the speculation and analysis, Robynne stressed that the top priority remains Nancy’s safety.
"Most critical factor is Nancy Guthrie’s wellbeing.
"Close second to that is determining what exactly do the kidnappers want, so we can get Nancy home safely. That’s the detective's job," she said.
While investigators continue their efforts, the potential long-term emotional consequences also loom large.
"When Nancy returns home, and I hope she will, the PTSD and extreme trauma she has been through - as well as the family - will require much therapy and support."
Ultimately, Robynne emphasized that everything hinges on bringing Nancy home.