Savannah Guthrie's Missing Mother 'Ransom Note' Allegedly Asks for 'Substantial Amount' of Bitcoin

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of TODAY show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has taken a disturbing turn. What began as a missing person case in Tucson, Arizona, has now escalated into a criminal investigation, with authorities treating her home as a potential crime scene.

Nancy was last seen on Saturday, 31 January 2026, at her residence in the Catalina Foothills. By Sunday morning, 1 February, she had failed to attend church, prompting her family to raise the alarm. Investigators now believe she was abducted in the middle of the night, a theory reinforced by her limited mobility and the discovery of her belongings left behind.

Alleged Bitcoin Ransom Note Sent to TMZ

On Tuesday, 3 February, TMZ reported receiving an email containing an alleged 'ransom note' demanding a 'substantial amount' of Bitcoin for Nancy's safe release.

The note reportedly specified a ransom in the millions and directed that the cryptocurrency be sent to a verified Bitcoin address. The message included a strict deadline and a threatening 'or else' ultimatum. To demonstrate credibility, the sender described specific items that were damaged inside Guthrie's home.

TMZ has since forwarded the email to the Pima County Sheriff's Department for investigation.

Authorities Treat Every Lead As Critical

In a statement posted on X, the Pima County Sheriff's Department said that they are 'aware of reports circulating about possible ransom note(s) regarding the investigation into Nancy Guthrie.'

The department said, 'We are taking all tips and leads very seriously. Anything that comes in, goes directly to our detectives who are coordinating with the FBl.' They have also encouraged those who may have any information about Nancy to come forward and help the authorities find the 84-year-old.

Taken from Her Bed in the Middle of the Night

Nancy's family told Sheriff Chris Nanos that Nancy 'couldn't walk 50 yards. And so we know she couldn't get far from that home unless she was removed from that home.' Investigators believe she was taken against her will, possibly while she slept.

Sheriff Nanos said, 'We saw some things at the home that were concerning to us. At this point, investigators believe she was taken from the home against her will, possibly in the middle of the night. Taken against her will includes possible kidnapping or abduction.'

The sheriff added, 'I believe she was abducted, yes. She didn't walk from there. She didn't go willingly.'

Urgency Heightened by Medical Needs

Nancy's personal items, such as her phone, wallet, and car, were found still at her home when detectives searched her property. The situation is made more urgent by her reliance on her life-saving medication.

'The clock is literally ticking,' the sheriff said, adding, 'We were told that if she didn't get her meds, it can be fatal.'

Savannah Guthrie Appeals for Public Support

On Monday, Savannah released a statement and expressed her gratitude for the 'thoughts, prayers, and messages of support' she has received from people. She also thanked the authorities and encouraged everyone with 'information to contact the Pima County Sheriff's Department at 520-351-4900.'

She said, 'Right now, our focus remains on the safe return of our dear mom.'