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Media Swarms Tucson: Mother of Anchor Missing
12 Feb
Summary
- Media descended on Tucson for the harrowing search of Nancy Guthrie.
- Journalists faced challenges reporting on a colleague's family crisis.
- A pizza delivery to a crime scene sparked scolding from authorities.
A significant media presence has converged on Tucson, Arizona, to cover the ongoing search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of "Today" co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. This intense coverage, now in its 12th day as of February 12, 2026, involves numerous reporters, producers, and journalists from various media outlets. The story has garnered national attention, with FBI involvement and anchors breaking regular programming for updates.
The presence of Savannah Guthrie, a familiar face to millions, has amplified public interest and boosted "Today" show ratings by 23% year-over-year. This situation presents a unique challenge for journalists, who must balance reporting on a colleague's personal tragedy. "We feel a connection to that great team," noted CNN correspondent Ed Lavandera.
News outlets, including CNN, Fox News, and entertainment shows, are covering the abduction. Some, like TMZ, have received purported ransom notes. However, the media's conduct has drawn scrutiny, with the Pima County Sheriff's Department publicly admonishing reporters for ordering food deliveries to a crime scene.
Journalists on the ground are dedicating long hours, estimating 15 to 16-hour workdays. CNN has four reporting crews on site, and anchors like Jake Tapper have been present. The investigation has seen developments, including the detention of a person of interest, Carlos Palazuelos, who was later released. Updates can occur at any hour, necessitating constant vigilance from the media.
The Guthrie family, originally from Melbourne, Australia, has deep roots in Tucson, where Nancy settled in the early 1970s. Neighbors express a sense of local pride associated with the family. While some believe the media attention aids investigators, recent images of a masked assailant have heightened fear among residents.
The core of the story remains the terrifying abduction of an elderly woman from her home. "It's the stuff of nightmares," said Lavandera, reflecting the profound unease the case has generated. The "Today" family has expressed their solidarity and pleaded for public assistance via the FBI tipline.
