TMZ Received ALLEGED RANSOM NOTE Connected to Disappearance of Nancy Guthrie

In a dramatic escalation to the ongoing mystery surrounding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC's "Today" show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, TMZ reported Tuesday that it has obtained what appears to be an alleged ransom note demanding millions of dollars in Bitcoin for her safe return.

The note, which TMZ says was received early Tuesday morning, reportedly specifies a "substantial" sum in the millions and instructs that the cryptocurrency be transferred to a particular Bitcoin address—one that the outlet claims to have verified as legitimate and active. Sources familiar with the communication described it as including a firm deadline for payment, along with an ominous "or else" warning implying harm to Nancy Guthrie if the demands are not met.

TMZ further noted that the note contained specific details about the crime scene at Nancy's home in the Catalina Foothills area near Tucson, Arizona—information that could potentially indicate authenticity, though authorities have not publicly confirmed this.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department, which is leading the investigation with assistance from the FBI, quickly addressed the reports in a statement, acknowledging awareness of "possible ransom note(s) circulating" in connection with the case. Officials emphasized that they are "taking all tips and leads very seriously" while urging the public to forward any information directly to investigators rather than acting independently.

Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on Sunday, February 1, 2026, after last being seen at her residence around 9:30 p.m. the previous Saturday. Authorities have classified the incident as a likely abduction or kidnapping, citing evidence of forced entry and signs that the elderly woman—described by her daughter as a woman of deep faith and conviction—was taken against her will, possibly while asleep. Her cell phone and vehicle were left behind, and concerns have been raised about her access to necessary medications.

Savannah Guthrie has been absent from the "Today" show this week, instead issuing public pleas for prayers and support via social media and family statements, thanking law enforcement and encouraging tips to the Pima County Sheriff's Department tip line.

As the search enters its critical early days with hundreds of leads under review, the emergence of this purported ransom demand has intensified scrutiny on what remains a baffling and deeply concerning case. No arrests have been made, and the authenticity of the note has not been independently verified by law enforcement at this time. Authorities continue to treat the situation with utmost urgency.

17GEN4.com