Local authorities in Arizona released two ransom notes on Friday. They relate to the kidnapping case of Nancy Guthrie, who disappeared earlier this year.
The second note, sent on February 6 to a Tucson news outlet, claimed that 84-year-old Guthrie died shortly after being kidnapped. The note stated, “We believe it was heart related. She is buried in nature now. Nothing you could have done could have changed the outcome. We want your family to know this and hope you all can find peace. We are truly sorry.”
Nancy Guthrie is the mother of “TODAY” co-host Savannah Guthrie. She went missing from her home near Tucson early on February 1. The FBI is investigating her disappearance as a kidnapping for ransom.
The first ransom note, sent four days before the second note to the same outlet (a CBS affiliate), described a white smart watch at the foot of her bed and a destroyed flood light in her backyard. This note demanded $4 million in bitcoin by February 5, threatening to raise the amount to $6 million if payment wasn’t made by 5 p.m. on February 9. The note warned, “Do not play games, law enforcement will not be able to help you,” and stated that “her life is in your hands.”
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department released the notes to generate new leads. They described the notes as having a “unique linguistic style” with distinctive word choice, syntax, and phrasing. This might offer “valuable insight into the person’s mindset, motives, and the evolution of their tone over time.” The department suggests that “a friend, family member, coworker, classmate or acquaintance may recognize these patterns of expression and possess information that could help identify the individual responsible.”
Days before the release, Savannah Guthrie made an emotional appeal online. She urged whoever took her mother to “do the right thing” and provide information on her whereabouts. “Our family is in agony,” she stated. “Nothing about our situation has changed. We will always ache for her and feel that hole in our hearts.” She pleaded for help, saying, “Help us find her. Tell us where to look for her. It is never too late to do the right thing.”
Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). The Guthrie family is offering a $1 million reward for information leading to her return.
This situation continues to develop. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.