Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping: Bitcoin Ransom Demand Emerges as FBI Investigates Forced Entry
Investigators have uncovered compelling evidence of forced entry at the Arizona residence of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie. According to a source familiar with the ongoing case, authorities believe Guthrie was taken against her will from her Tucson home, sparking a multi-agency investigation.
Savannah Guthrie's Emotional Appeal and Limited Official Details
In a heartfelt social media plea late Monday, Savannah Guthrie described her mother as "a woman of deep conviction" and urged supporters to maintain faith that she would be safely returned home. The emotional appeal came as authorities from the Pima County Sheriff's Office and the FBI addressed the media on Tuesday, though they shared minimal operational details.
Sheriff Chris Nanos declined to specify whether the incident appeared random or targeted and did not elaborate on evidence recovered from the scene. He confirmed a critical medical concern: Nancy Guthrie requires daily medication and could face life-threatening consequences without it. When questioned about whether investigators are searching for her alive, Nanos responded, "We hope we are."
Disturbing Scene and Emergence of Bitcoin Ransom Demand
Footage obtained by NewsNation revealed dark red stains on the tile outside Guthrie's residence, consistent with earlier media descriptions of a bloodied scene. Authorities have not confirmed whose blood is present at the location.
In a dramatic development, a purported ransom note linked to Nancy Guthrie's disappearance was sent to media outlet TMZ on Tuesday. According to reports, the sender demanded millions of dollars in Bitcoin for her safe return, setting a payment deadline and warning of potential harm if demands weren't met.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department acknowledged awareness of "possible ransom note(s) circulating" but emphasized investigators haven't confirmed the authenticity or legitimacy of the demand. This development adds a complex digital dimension to the already troubling case.
Political Reaction and Professional Impact
US President Donald Trump addressed the situation during an Oval Office briefing on Tuesday afternoon, calling the circumstances "terrible" and noting he planned to call Savannah Guthrie later. Trump added, "I always got along very good with Savannah," highlighting the personal connections affected by this crime.
Savannah Guthrie, who has deep roots in Tucson, has remained off the air as the search for her mother continues. For a second consecutive day, Today opened Tuesday's broadcast with coverage of Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, though Savannah was notably absent from the anchor desk.
In a related professional development, NBC Sports announced Guthrie will step away from covering the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics to focus on supporting her family during what the network described as a difficult time. This decision underscores the profound personal impact of the kidnapping on Guthrie's professional commitments and family life.
The investigation continues as authorities pursue multiple leads while the Guthrie family awaits resolution in this distressing kidnapping case that has captured national attention.
