Why Savannah Guthrie Raised the Reward for Her Missing Mom Despite Fears She Might Be Dead

February 25, 2026 – Today Show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie’s mother, Nancy Guthrie, has been missing for 24 days. The case has captured national attention, and the search for the 84-year-old woman continues. Recently, Savannah and her siblings increased the reward for information on their mother to up to USD 1 million. This decision has sparked questions from the public, especially since Savannah has expressed doubt that Nancy may still be alive.

Why the Reward Was Increased

Savannah Guthrie explained that raising the reward is intended to motivate anyone with information to come forward. The new USD 1 million reward is meant to push leads that may have been hesitant to share what they know.

A family source told PEOPLE: “The family wanted to offer the reward from day one but were advised not to overwhelm the team handling tens of thousands of leads. Now, the infrastructure is ready to manage it.”

The phrasing “up to USD 1 million” allows the reward to be split if multiple valid leads emerge. The FBI has also offered a separate USD 100,000 reward. All payouts are subject to verification by the FBI to ensure accuracy.

Updates on the Investigation

Investigators have recovered DNA from Nancy Guthrie’s property that does not belong to her. Earlier, police found a black glove about two miles from her home, which may belong to the intruder captured on the home’s doorbell camera. DNA from the glove is being analyzed.

The FBI has also released high-resolution video footage showing a male suspect, approximately 5-feet-9-inches tall, wearing a black 25-liter “Ozark Trail Hiker Pack.” Authorities continue to investigate his identity.

Savannah Guthrie Still Holds Hope

Despite acknowledging the possibility that her mother may already be dead, Savannah remains hopeful. In an emotional Instagram video, she shared: “It is day 24 since our mom was taken in the dark of night. Every hour and minute has been agony. She may already be gone… she may have already gone home to the Lord that she loves, dancing in Heaven with her mom, dad, and beloved brother Pierce.”

Savannah’s statement shows the family’s mixed feelings: deep fear and grief, but still a belief in a possible miracle.

Expert Opinion on the Case

Former FBI Assistant Director Chris Swecker has voiced skepticism about Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance. He suggested the case may not be a straightforward kidnapping due to the lack of proof of life and the unusual ransom demands.

Swecker warned that authorities and the family must consider other possibilities, including the grim chance that Nancy may have died shortly after the incident.

What’s Next

The Guthrie family continues to coordinate closely with law enforcement. The hope is that the increased reward and public awareness will bring forward critical information to locate Nancy Guthrie.