Ransom Note Investigated in Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance

Tucson, Arizona – The Pima County Sheriff’s Department acknowledged on Tuesday that they are “aware” of a potential ransom note linked to the case of Nancy Guthrie, who is the mother of Savannah Guthrie, co-host of NBC’s “Today” show.

“We are aware of reports regarding a possible ransom note in the Nancy Guthrie investigation,” officials stated on Tuesday afternoon.

The sheriff’s office emphasized that they treat all information and leads “very seriously.”

“Any information received is immediately forwarded to detectives collaborating with the FBI,” the officials added.

Investigation Takes a New Turn

Shortly after, it was reported that TMZ had received an unverified ransom note demanding a “substantial amount” of money in Bitcoin for Guthrie’s return.

TMZ confirmed that the Bitcoin address mentioned in the note was “legitimate” and contained undisclosed details concerning her disappearance.

They reached out to law enforcement regarding the memo since it included a deadline.

Local news outlet KOLD 13 also claimed to have received a similar ransom note, although it’s unclear if the communications are the same.

“Our newsroom also received what appeared to be a ransom note and forwarded it to law enforcement,” KOLD reporter Mary Coleman noted in a statement.

In an interview, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed they are aware of the ransom note but emphasized that local police are leading the investigation.

“Local authorities have informed the FBI, and we are assisting them as needed,” Patel explained. “However, they are in charge right now, and we respect that. We’re here to support them, whether it’s with ransom notes or anything else.”

Background on Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance

Former FBI Special Agent Jason Pack told FOX News Digital that the authenticity of the letter is crucial, warning that scammers often prey on families of missing individuals.

“Scammers are known for doing horrible things, including misleading loved ones of those who are missing,” Pack stated. “That said, police must take these seriously until they can definitively prove they’re fake.” This, of course, diverts resources from ongoing investigations.

The sheriff’s office indicated that Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her Tucson home on Saturday night around 9:30 p.m.

Authorities haven’t divulged specifics about her disappearance but believe she may have been kidnapped.

Police discovered a “droplet of blood” leading from the home’s front door, down the hallway, and into the driveway.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos mentioned that Guthrie didn’t attend church services on Sunday, prompting another churchgoer to alert her family.

The family arrived at the home around 11 a.m. and called 911 around noon.

Public Call for Support

Savannah Guthrie took to Instagram, urging for prayers amid her mother’s ongoing absence, stating, “We need you.”

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department reiterated on Monday their belief that Nancy Guthrie has been abducted. It’s still uncertain whether this was a targeted incident or a random act.

In her heartfelt message, Savannah said, “We believe in prayer. We believe in community support filled with love and hope. We trust in goodness and humanity. Above all, we believe in God.” She asked for prayers for her mother, highlighting Nancy as a woman of strong faith.

Anyone with relevant information regarding Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance is encouraged to contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

This story is still unfolding, so please check back for updates.