Ransom Note Demands Millions in Bitcoin in Shocking Disappearance of ‘Today’ Host Savannah Guthrie’s Mother
By Staff Reporter
TUCSON, Ariz. – Authorities are investigating a chilling ransom note demanding millions in Bitcoin in connection with the abduction of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC’s ‘Today’ show co-host Savannah Guthrie, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed Tuesday.
The note, sent anonymously to a local Arizona news station on Monday, included specific details about Guthrie’s home and the clothing she was wearing the night she vanished, according to Nanos. While the sheriff declined to verify the note’s authenticity or the accuracy of its details, he emphasized that investigators are treating it seriously amid mounting evidence of foul play at her residence.[2][1]
Timeline of a Nighttime Abduction
Nancy Guthrie, who lives alone in a ranch-style home in the Catalina Foothills area north of Tucson, was last seen around 9:30 p.m. Saturday when her family dropped her off after an evening outing. She failed to appear at church services the next morning, prompting concerned relatives to check on her around 11 a.m. Sunday. What they found led to an immediate call to authorities.[7][1]
Deputies arrived to discover “suspicious and concerning circumstances,” including drops of blood inside the home and an empty frame where a security camera should have been mounted near the front door. The home was equipped with multiple cameras, and detectives are reviewing any available footage in collaboration with the family and surveillance companies.[1][8]
Sheriff Nanos described the scene as a “crime scene,” stating unequivocally that Guthrie was “physically removed from that home against her will.” He ruled out her leaving voluntarily, citing her limited mobility – she reportedly couldn’t walk more than 50 yards – and sharp mental acuity. “She didn’t walk from there. She didn’t go willingly. We believe 100 percent right now she could not have walked away from that home,” Nanos said.[4][5]
Investigators found Guthrie’s cell phone, Apple Watch, wallet, and car keys inside the residence, further suggesting she did not leave on her own. Blood evidence outside the home has heightened fears for her safety, and Nanos appealed directly to any abductors: “The clock is literally ticking.” Guthrie requires daily medication for a critical health condition, and without it, her life could be in immediate jeopardy.[3][2]
Investigative Leads and Challenges
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department, leading the probe with FBI assistance, has shifted from search-and-rescue operations to a full criminal investigation. Nanos confirmed the note’s existence but provided no details on suspects, the number of individuals involved, or whether the perpetrator was known to Guthrie. “It could be one, it could’ve been more, I don’t know,” he told reporters.[8][5]
Security expert analysis highlighted peculiarities, such as the absence of Guthrie’s personal items, which could indicate compliance – possibly because she knew her abductor or was coerced by a weapon. “That could indicate she was compliant,” noted one expert, raising questions about whether the kidnapper was a familiar face or a stranger employing threats.[5]
TMZ reported the ransom demand specifically sought millions in cryptocurrency, adding a modern twist to the high-profile case. The news station that received the note agreed not to publicize it initially, cooperating with law enforcement.[6][2]
Family’s Heartache and Public Response
Savannah Guthrie, a prominent figure on NBC’s morning program, has not issued a public statement, but colleagues have rallied around her. Longtime sportscaster Mike Tirico expressed being “heartbroken” over the disappearance ahead of Super Bowl LX coverage. Reports also indicate Guthrie pulled out of hosting the Winter Olympics opening ceremony as the search continues.[3][7]
The Guthrie family has deep roots in Tucson; Nancy moved there in the 1970s with her husband and three children. She raised the family alone after her husband’s sudden death from a heart attack at age 49. Savannah has often spoken fondly of her mother’s resilience, once saying on ‘Today,’ “When my dad died, our family just hung onto each other for dear life.”[4]
Neighbors in the Catalina Foothills have shown support with signs and gatherings, as the community grapples with the brazen abduction in their quiet suburb. The Arizona Department of Public Safety assisted initially, notifying federal authorities due to the case’s gravity.[1][4]
Ongoing Search and Urgent Plea
As of Tuesday, Nanos reported sparse leads: “We don’t know where she is.” Searches are fanning out from her last known location near East Skyline Drive and North Campbell Avenue. The sheriff urged anyone with information to come forward, stressing the peril to Guthrie’s health without her medications. “You’ve placed her in great jeopardy without giving her meds that are critical to her,” he warned potential perpetrators.[2][5]
The investigation remains active, with no theories on motive disclosed. Authorities continue to canvass for witnesses and analyze evidence, including possible forced entry signs and nighttime abduction indicators. The FBI’s involvement underscores the case’s national profile, given Savannah Guthrie’s fame.[1][4]
This developing story has captivated the nation, blending celebrity ties with a mother’s desperate plight. Law enforcement vows relentless pursuit until Nancy Guthrie is found safe.
Updates will be provided as new information emerges. Tip line: Pima County Sheriff’s Department non-emergency line.