TUCSON, Ariz. (Scripps News Group) — The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said it is reviewing reports of a possible ransom note as part of its investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie.
KGUN received a ransom note referencing Nancy Guthrie. It makes a specific demand for several million dollars in Bitcoin by Thursday and threatens to kill her if payment is not received by Monday. It also makes specific reference to two pieces of evidence at the crime scene, which we can not authenticate as legitimate. KGUN has forwarded the full contents of the note to investigators and authorities.
Nancy Guthrie seen in missing person alert from Pima County Sheriff’s Department. (Pima County Sheriff’s Department)
The TV station was one of several news outlets that received a ransom note.
“We are aware of reports circulating about possible ransom note(s) regarding the investigation into Nancy Guthrie. We are taking all tips and leads very seriously,” the sheriff’s department said in a statement.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said Tuesday investigators believe the 84-year-old was taken from her Tucson-area home “against her will,” though he did not disclose what evidence led him to that belief. He noted that investigators have not determined whether she was specifically targeted or abducted at random.
According to Nanos, Nancy Guthrie was dropped off at her home around 9:30 p.m. Saturday. She was reported missing about 11 a.m. Sunday, after she did not show up for church.
The FBI is providing investigative support, including assistance with analyzing cellphone data and nearby cell towers.
Authorities have also collected DNA samples from Guthrie’s home, but so far they have not yielded information that could help identify a suspect, Nanos said.
Nancy Guthrie is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing about 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes.
Nanos noted that Nancy Guthrie has trouble getting around, making it unlikely she wandered off. He also noted she does not have any mental issues. However, there is also worry about her health because of the medication she takes. Nanos said it could be fatal if she doesn’t receive it.
In her first public statement since her mother was reported missing, Savannah Guthrie thanked supporters for their prayers.
“Thank you for lifting your prayers with ours for our beloved mom, our dearest Nancy, a woman of deep conviction, a good and faithful servant,” Guthrie said. “Raise your prayers with us and believe with us that she will be lifted by them in this very moment.”
This story was originally published by Scripps News Group of Tucson.
