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Nancy Motes Disappearance: FDLE Renewed Appeal After 8 Years

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/2 .. ppearance-fdle-renewed-appeal-after-8-years.html
  Published in House and Home on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 11:33 GMT by People
      Locales: Florida, Tennessee, UNITED STATES

Gainesville, Florida - February 27th, 2026 - The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) renewed its public appeal today for information regarding the disappearance of Nancy Motes, the mother of prominent TODAY show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. The case, which began in June 2018, remains open and continues to haunt the Guthrie family. Today marks nearly eight years since Nancy Motes was last seen, and investigators are hoping a fresh surge of public attention will yield new leads.

Savannah Guthrie, 51, appeared in a video released by the FDLE, making a heartfelt plea for assistance. "It's been a long time," she stated, her voice filled with emotion. "And it's been a really hard time for my entire family. We miss her dearly." Guthrie has consistently used her public platform to advocate for her mother's case, providing updates and urging anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward.

Nancy Motes, 61 at the time of her disappearance, was last observed in Gainesville, Florida, on June 3rd, 2018. The initial investigation focused on the possibility of foul play, a suspicion that tragically materialized when her son, John Motes Jr., was arrested and charged with her murder in 2019. However, the legal proceedings have been complex and protracted, casting a long shadow over the case.

The trial of John Motes Jr. has been marked by delays and legal challenges. He has consistently maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to the charges. The defense has argued that evidence is circumstantial and that authorities rushed to judgment. Several pre-trial hearings have centered around the admissibility of forensic evidence and witness testimonies, with rulings frequently appealed by both sides. While the legal battle continues, the search for Nancy's remains has remained a priority for both law enforcement and the Guthrie family.

The FDLE is currently offering a reward for information leading to Nancy's recovery, though the specific amount has not been disclosed publicly. Investigators believe that someone may hold a crucial piece of information that could finally bring closure to the case. They are urging anyone who may have been in Gainesville in June 2018, or who may have any knowledge of Nancy Motes' whereabouts, to contact them immediately.

"We're asking for anyone who might know something, anything at all, to please come forward," Guthrie implored in the FDLE video. "Even if you think it's insignificant, please tell the Florida Department of Law Enforcement." She emphasized the profound impact the uncertainty has had on her family. "Every day that goes by without answers is just another day of uncertainty and pain. We're never going to give up hope, but we need your help."

The investigation has extended beyond Gainesville, encompassing a review of Nancy Motes' financial records, communications, and known associates. Detectives have conducted numerous interviews, attempting to piece together her final days and uncover any potential motives for harm. The complex relationship between Nancy and her son, John, has been a significant focus of the investigation, with reports suggesting a history of conflict and financial disputes.

Savannah Guthrie's public appeals, while deeply personal, are also intended to raise awareness about the challenges faced by families of missing persons. The case highlights the often-frustrating lack of resources and the difficulty of maintaining momentum in long-term investigations. Advocacy groups for missing persons have praised Guthrie's commitment to keeping her mother's case in the public eye, emphasizing that even years after a disappearance, hope for resolution remains.

Anyone with information regarding the disappearance of Nancy Motes is urged to contact the Florida Department of Law Enforcement at 1-800-342-8347. The FDLE is also utilizing social media and online platforms to disseminate information and gather leads, hoping to reach a wider audience and encourage anyone with knowledge to come forward. The Guthrie family remains steadfast in their hope for answers and justice for Nancy Motes.