Key moments
In a troubling development, two ransom notes were sent to TMZ on April 6, 2026, claiming to have information regarding the location of Nancy Guthrie, who has been missing since January 31, 2026. The sender of the notes demanded half a bitcoin for details about her whereabouts, raising alarm among her family and authorities.
The first ransom note stated, “She is dead,” while the sender claimed to have seen Nancy alive in Sonora, Mexico. This assertion has intensified concerns, particularly given that Nancy requires lifesaving daily medication and has a pacemaker. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is leading the investigation into her disappearance, which has now extended over two months.
Retired FBI agent Jason Pack has expressed skepticism regarding the legitimacy of the ransom notes, noting that the timing of the claims is a significant red flag. He stated, “Real witnesses don’t track the news cycle. Opportunists do,” suggesting that the sender may be exploiting the media coverage surrounding Nancy’s case.
In the ransom notes, the sender also claimed to have been out of the United States for over five years, which raises further questions about their credibility. Despite the alarming nature of the messages, the FBI has not paid any ransom demands since February, indicating a cautious approach to the situation.
Savannah Guthrie, Nancy’s daughter, has returned to the ‘Today’ show and believes that two of the ransom notes received by her family are genuine. She expressed frustration over the situation, stating, “I know where her body is, and who the kidnapper is, give me half a bitcoin and I’ll tell you,” as quoted by Harvey Levin from TMZ.
The sender’s persistence in sending these notes, despite potential legal consequences, has raised concerns among investigators. The investigation continues as authorities work to verify the claims made in the ransom notes and locate Nancy Guthrie.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the identity of the sender and the exact circumstances of Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance. As the investigation unfolds, the family and law enforcement remain hopeful for a resolution.
