Search Intensifies for Nancy Guthrie, Mother of Savannah Guthrie, as Bitcoin Ransom Demands Surface
The search for Nancy Guthrie, 84, the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, continues three weeks after she disappeared from her Tucson, Arizona, home on February 1. Authorities are investigating the case as a kidnapping, and the investigation has taken several turns, including the emergence of ransom demands in cryptocurrency.
Timeline of Events
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on the night of January 31. Her disappearance was reported on February 1. Initial leads included blood found on her front porch and a disconnected doorbell camera . Surveillance footage recovered on February 10 revealed a masked individual tampering with the camera .
FBI Investigation and Potential Suspects
The FBI has released photos and videos of the masked suspect, described as a male approximately 5’9”-5’10” tall, of average build, carrying a black backpack . Law enforcement has reportedly obtained names and photos of individuals matching the suspect’s description and has been seeking confirmation from local business and gun shop owners . However, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has denied reports that authorities have narrowed their search to a specific group of potential suspects .
DNA Evidence and Forensic Analysis
Investigators are analyzing biological evidence found at Nancy Guthrie’s residence. A glove discovered near her home, appearing to match those worn by the suspect in the surveillance footage, did not yield a match in the FBI’s Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) . Authorities have as well uncovered additional DNA evidence within the home that does not belong to Nancy Guthrie or her family .
Ransom Demands and FBI Outreach
Several news outlets, including TMZ and local Arizona stations, have received ransom notes allegedly from Nancy Guthrie’s captors, demanding millions in Bitcoin . One recent note demanded $6 million in a different form of cryptocurrency and included graphic threats . The FBI has reached out to Mexican authorities as part of the investigation .
Reward for Information
The reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s safe return or the arrest of her captor has increased to over $202,500, boosted by an anonymous donation of $100,000 . This is in addition to $100,000 from the FBI and $2,500 from 88 Crime.
Savannah Guthrie’s Plea
Savannah Guthrie has made multiple public appeals for information, stating, “It is never too late to do the right thing” .