Ransom note claims Nancy Guthrie died after abduction

June 23, 2026

Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, was kidnapped from her Arizona home in late January 2026. Abductors sent an initial ransom note demanding millions in bitcoin, followed by a second note approximately one week later claiming she had died unintentionally and apologizing to the family. Despite the family offering over $1 million in rewards and making public pleas to the kidnappers, Nancy Guthrie has not been found.

Who is affected

Nancy Guthrie (84-year-old kidnapping victim)
Savannah Guthrie (NBC Today show co-anchor and daughter of the victim)
Nancy Guthrie's other children/siblings of Savannah Guthrie
Nancy Guthrie's relatives who dropped her off at home on January 31
The friend Nancy Guthrie was supposed to visit for virtual church service
The Guthrie family collectively

What action is being taken

The Pima County Sheriff's Department investigation remains active and ongoing
The FBI is working closely with Pima County on the investigation
Investigators are following up on leads, reviewing information, and pursuing facts surrounding the case

Why it matters

This case represents a high-profile abduction of an elderly woman in poor health who required critical medication, raising concerns about her survival and wellbeing. The involvement of a prominent media figure's family has drawn significant public attention to the case, while the tragic claim of accidental death in the second ransom note creates urgency around finding answers and potentially recovering remains. The ongoing investigation by federal and local authorities demonstrates the seriousness with which law enforcement treats kidnapping cases, particularly those involving vulnerable elderly victims.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC