Ransom Notes Contradict Sheriff in Missing Mom Case

Investigators in the Arizona disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, mother of 'Today' show co-host Savannah Guthrie, have released two ransom notes that contradict earlier public statements from law enforcement. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos initially stated there was no indication the 84-year-old was deceased and no ransom notes had been received.

However, sheriff's officials later released two notes sent to a local CBS affiliate in February, shortly after Guthrie was reported missing. The first note demanded a $4 million ransom in bitcoin and promised her safe return. The second note, sent days later, stated that Nancy Guthrie had perished shortly after her abduction, suggesting a heart-related issue, and that she was "buried in nature."

Both notes were sent via email through a tip line, originating from masked IP addresses, making attribution difficult. The FBI has taken the notes seriously due to details about the victim's belongings and home. Experts suggest the delayed release might stem from verifying the notes' authenticity, as individuals have previously been charged for submitting hoax notes.

Retired FBI agents noted that the second message dropped the ransom demand, which is unusual for financially motivated crimes. Savannah Guthrie, on Instagram, urged anyone with information, including recognition of the handwriting in the notes, to come forward six months after her mother's disappearance. Substantial rewards are being offered by both the FBI and the Guthrie family for information leading to Nancy Guthrie's location or the arrest of those involved.