Search for Nancy Guthrie Intensifies
Nancy Guthrie’s case took a significant turn recently as Harvey Levin, founder of TMZ, shared updates on the FBI’s investigation into her disappearance. Levin has been in contact with the bureau throughout the ordeal.
In a note that TMZ received, it was mentioned that Guthrie was “scared but okay.” Notably, there was no apology or indication of her having passed away. This contrasts with multiple communications received by local Tucson TV stations, which included a second note claiming she was “buried with nature,” suggesting the abductors hadn’t initially intended to harm her.
Following the kidnapping, TMZ reported that they received dozens of emails from someone who claimed to know the identity of the kidnappers and the whereabouts of the 84-year-old. This individual, while insisting they were uninvolved in the abduction, offered to share information in exchange for bitcoin, warning that “time is of the essence.”
However, the very next day, they sent another message saying that “time is no longer of the essence.” Levin interpreted this as a troubling sign that Nancy might no longer be alive. He noted that the sender’s sudden lack of urgency added credibility to the claim, as typical scams often rely on a pressure to act quickly.
CNN reported that law enforcement initially asked media outlets to refrain from disclosing details about the ransom notes to ensure that any further communication with the kidnapper could be validated.
Importantly, the FBI did not make any payments to the email sender, even after TMZ offered to cover the costs. Initially, Levin stated that the FBI had gone “radio silent,” but they’ve since clarified that they rejected the payment because they are making substantial progress in the case.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department, which has been leading the investigation for nearly five months, confirmed to CNN that the case is still “active and ongoing.” They deferred questions about the ransom notes to the FBI.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department tip line at 520-351-4900 or the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
