The FBI has arrested an individual who sent a fake ransom demand in connection with the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of 'Today' show anchor Savannah Guthrie. The arrest was announced at a press conference on Thursday by Heith Janke, FBI Phoenix’s special agent in charge, alongside the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home in Tucson, Arizona, on the evening of January 31. She was reported missing after failing to attend her usual church service the following day. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that there have been no arrests related to her disappearance, and no suspects or persons of interest have been identified.
On Tuesday, news outlet TMZ received a ransom note demanding millions of dollars in Bitcoin. While police are treating the note seriously, they have also received fake demands from imposters. Janke warned that those attempting to profit from the situation would be investigated and held accountable. The FBI has made one arrest and will present a complaint to a magistrate judge.
The ransom note received by TMZ included a deadline of 5 p.m. on Thursday, with a more serious deadline reportedly set for Monday. Authorities continue to search for Nancy Guthrie with support from the FBI.
