ARREST in Connection to Ransom Hoax DISRUPTING SEARCH for Nancy Guthrie

FBI Makes Arrest in Fake Ransom Hoax Amid Ongoing Search for Missing Nancy Guthrie

Derrick Callella, 42, of Hawthorne, California, has been charged with transmitting a ransom demand related to a kidnapped person, and anonymous interstate communications intended to harass or threaten.

Tucson, Arizona – February 5, 2026 – Federal authorities announced Thursday that an individual has been arrested in connection with a fraudulent ransom demand related to the disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie. The arrest, described as involving an "imposter" attempting to profit from the high-profile case, is not believed to be linked to the actual abduction.

Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home in Tucson around 9:30 p.m. on January 31, 2026, and was reported missing the following day after failing to attend a church service.

Authorities from the Pima County Sheriff's Department quickly suspected foul play, citing blood evidence found at the scene that was later confirmed through DNA testing to belong to Guthrie.

Sheriff Chris Nanos stated earlier this week that Guthrie's physical limitations and mental sharpness made it unlikely she left voluntarily, reinforcing the belief that she was taken against her will.The case took a dramatic turn with the emergence of multiple ransom notes, one of which was sent to media outlets demanding millions in Bitcoin and including specific details about Guthrie's clothing and home interior.

However, during a press conference on February 5, FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke revealed that one such note was a hoax. "We have made one arrest related to an imposter ransom demand, and a complaint will be presented to a magistrate judge later today," Janke said.

He emphasized that there is "no evidence to connect this to Nancy’s case," describing the perpetrator as "a total imposter" seeking financial gain.

This development comes amid reports of at least three ransom notes, with one still under investigation for potential legitimacy, though no proof of life has been provided and no direct contact has been made with the family.

In a bid to accelerate the search, the FBI announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to Guthrie's recovery or the arrest and conviction of those responsible for her disappearance.

No suspects or persons of interest have been named in the abduction itself, and officials remain optimistic, stating they believe Guthrie is "still out there."

Savannah Guthrie, who has been absent from her hosting duties on the "Today" show and withdrew from covering the 2026 Winter Olympics, shared an emotional plea on social media on February 4 alongside her siblings. "We are ready to communicate. But we need proof of life," she said, urging for her mother's safe return.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department continues to urge the public to come forward with any tips, emphasizing that even small details could prove crucial. As the investigation unfolds, the family and authorities hold out hope for Nancy Guthrie's safe resolution in this distressing case.

17GEN4.com