TMZ has reported that it has obtained an alleged ransom note demanding payment for the release of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” anchor Savannah Guthrie. The note, which surfaced on February 3, requests a significant amount of Bitcoin in the millions, to be sent to a specified Bitcoin address.
The media outlet confirmed that the Bitcoin address mentioned in the note is legitimate. Additionally, there is an implied deadline for the ransom, coupled with a threatening element suggesting dire consequences if the demands are not met. TMZ has forwarded the note to the Pima County Sheriff’s Office for further investigation.
In response to the reports, the Pima County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement on its X account acknowledging the situation. The department emphasized that they are taking all leads and tips seriously, with any relevant information being directed to detectives working in conjunction with the FBI.
Representatives for Savannah Guthrie have chosen not to comment on the matter, and neither TMZ nor the Sheriff’s Office has verified the authenticity of the ransom note. Nancy Guthrie was last seen on January 31 at her home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona. Due to her age, authorities classified her as a “missing vulnerable adult.” On February 2, they escalated the investigation to a criminal inquiry after discovering “very concerning” evidence at her residence.
Sheriff Chris Nanos has expressed his belief that Nancy was abducted, asserting, “She didn’t walk from there. She didn’t go willingly.” It was noted that Nancy showed “no signs of cognitive issues” and is considered “very alert” and of “very sound mind.” At a media briefing on February 3, prior to the ransom note revelation, Sheriff Nanos indicated that troubling findings at Nancy’s home confirmed the existence of a crime scene and appealed to the community for assistance in the investigation.
In light of her mother’s disappearance, Savannah Guthrie took to Instagram to rally support and prayers from her followers. In her heartfelt post, she expressed her belief in the power of prayer and community support, urging people to join her in hoping for Nancy’s safe return. “Raise your prayers with us and believe with us that she will be lifted by them in this very moment. We need you,” she implored.
