Authorities in Arizona have formally acknowledged receiving reports concerning an alleged ransom note linked to the abduction of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC's Today show host Savannah Guthrie. The Pima County Sheriff's Office stated on social media platform X that it is aware of claims published by tabloid outlet TMZ, which reported that a note demanding millions in Bitcoin was sent to its offices on Tuesday morning.
Details of the Reported Ransom Demand
According to TMZ, the unverified note specified that the cryptocurrency payment must be sent to a particular Bitcoin address, which the outlet confirmed as legitimate. The communication reportedly concluded with a threatening deadline, warning of consequences if the ransom was not paid, and included specific details such as mention of a broken item inside Nancy Guthrie's home in the Tucson area. Despite these reports, the sheriff's office has not confirmed the note's authenticity, emphasising that all tips are being treated with utmost seriousness.
Investigation Updates and Press Conference Evasiveness
During a press conference held in Tucson on Tuesday, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos repeatedly declined to answer direct questions about whether any ransom demands had been made by the abductors. When pressed by journalists, Nanos responded evasively, stating, "We have all kinds of investigative leads we are working on" and later, "We are following all leads." He provided no notes of hope, confirming that investigators remain unaware of Nancy's whereabouts and have no identified suspects or details about her clothing or a potential getaway vehicle.
The sheriff also addressed reports of a removed doorbell camera at Nancy's home, noting it is unclear if this occurred before the abduction. Additionally, he mentioned that no unusual vehicles or tyre tracks were observed in the vicinity around the time of the incident. FBI agent Jon Edwards briefly spoke at the conference, urging the public to come forward with any information and assuring that the FBI is utilising all available resources, including cellphone tower data analysis and interviews, to aid the investigation.
Disturbing Evidence and Crime Scene Observations
Earlier on Tuesday, police sources revealed that disturbing evidence was discovered at Nancy Guthrie's Tucson home, including blood drops leading from the entryway to the driveway, indicating signs of forced entry. Forensic teams have been examining the property, although as of Tuesday, the rural home was not cordoned off with police tape despite being an active crime scene. Neighbours showed support by leaving a sign expressing solidarity with Nancy and her family.
Officials have stated they have no current reason to believe Nancy was targeted due to her daughter's high-profile status or substantial earnings, but all possibilities remain under consideration. Nancy, described as frail with poor mobility and a need for daily medication, was last seen by her daughter Annie on Saturday evening after they shared dinner and played mahjong together.
