The final ransom deadline for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC “Today” show anchor Savannah Guthrie, passed on Monday evening without any known communication from her alleged abductors, leaving investigators and the family in a state of heightened anxiety as the search enters its second week. Savannah Guthrie issued a heartfelt video plea, describing the situation as “an hour of desperation” and urging the public for any information that could lead to her mother’s safe return.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home in Tucson, Arizona, on January 31 and was reported missing the next day after failing to attend church services. Authorities believe she was taken against her will, with evidence including blood on her porch matching her DNA and a disconnected doorbell camera early on February 1. The investigation has involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI, who have set up a 24-hour command post in Tucson.
Over the past week, several media outlets received ransom notes demanding payment in Bitcoin for Guthrie’s release. The first deadline passed on February 5, followed by a second one on February 9 at 5:00 PM local time. Law enforcement officials have not confirmed the credibility of these notes but are treating all tips seriously. The FBI has emphasized that there has been no continued communication with the suspected kidnappers since the deadlines.
In response, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have released multiple videos expressing their willingness to pay for their mother’s return and pleading for proof of life. “We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her,” Guthrie said in a recent recording. The family’s appeals have drawn widespread media attention and public sympathy, with online communities and news organizations closely following the case.
Authorities have growing concerns about Nancy Guthrie’s health, as she requires daily medication for a pacemaker and heart-related issues. Investigators have conducted searches at various locations, including her home and her daughter’s residence, using specialized equipment to check underground tanks and other areas. Despite these efforts, no suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles have been identified in connection with the disappearance.
The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Guthrie’s recovery and has deployed crisis management experts and analytic teams to assist in the investigation. Public tips are being encouraged through a dedicated hotline, with officials stressing the importance of community assistance in solving the case. The disappearance has riveted the nation, with even former President Donald Trump reportedly speaking with Savannah Guthrie about the situation.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on locating Nancy Guthrie and ensuring her safety. Law enforcement officials are exploring all leads, while the family holds out hope for a resolution. The case highlights the challenges of modern kidnappings, including the use of digital currencies and the potential for misinformation, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts between authorities and the public in such critical situations.
