Home / Crime and Justice / Help Sought to Identify Writer of Guthrie Ransom Notes
Help Sought to Identify Writer of Guthrie Ransom Notes
2 Aug
Summary
- Ransom notes in Nancy Guthrie's abduction case were released six months later.
- Notes detail a $4 million Bitcoin ransom and claim Guthrie died unintentionally.
- Investigators urge public help to identify the distinctive writing style.
Investigators have publicly released two ransom notes linked to the abduction of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, six months after her disappearance near Tucson, Arizona. The Pima County Sheriff's Department is appealing to the public for help in identifying the writer based on distinctive patterns in word choice and syntax.
The first note, sent to news outlets on February 2, demanded $4 million in Bitcoin by February 5 for Guthrie's safe return. It stated, "Her life is in your hands. It is in the best interest of everyone to have this completed as soon as possible."
A second note, addressed to the Guthrie family, claimed that Nancy Guthrie had died unintentionally due to her physical condition shortly after being taken. "She perished shortly after she was taken. We believe it was heart related. She is buried in nature now," the note stated.
Sheriff Chris Nanos described the case as a very active investigation, with his department reviewing tens of thousands of tips. However, a recent investigation highlighted perceived missteps by authorities, including initially minimizing evidence and delaying crime scene sealing. The family, including TODAY co-host Savannah Guthrie, has expressed their deep anguish and urged anyone with information to come forward anonymously, noting a reward of up to $1 million is still offered.
