Police release Nancy Guthrie ransom notes in latest bid to find kidnappers

July 31, 2026

Police in Arizona have publicly released two ransom notes connected to the six-month-old disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of prominent TV presenter Savannah Guthrie. The first note demanded $4 million in Bitcoin and threatened to kill Nancy if payment wasn't received by specific deadlines, while the second note claimed she died of heart-related issues shortly after being taken. Authorities cannot confirm her death and are asking the public to help identify the writer based on distinctive writing patterns, similar to how the Unabomber was identified through his published manifesto.

Who is affected

Nancy Guthrie (84-year-old victim who disappeared)
Savannah Guthrie (Nancy's daughter and US news presenter)
The Guthrie family
Nancy Guthrie's friend (who expected her for a virtual church service)
Relatives who dropped Nancy off at her home

What action is being taken

The Pima County Sheriff's Office is releasing the ransom notes to the public
Investigators are asking the public to help identify the writer based on linguistic characteristics
The investigation remains active
Savannah Guthrie is making public video pleas for the kidnappers to reveal her mother's location

Why it matters

This case involves the kidnapping of an elderly woman and the targeting of a high-profile American family, demonstrating vulnerabilities even prominent figures face. The release of the ransom notes represents a critical investigative strategy that has historical precedent for success, as authorities hope someone will recognize the writer's distinctive language patterns. The unresolved nature of the case after six months, combined with conflicting claims about the victim's fate, creates ongoing uncertainty and trauma for the family while potentially encouraging similar crimes if left unsolved.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC