Sheriffs investigate alleged ransom notes sent to news outlets demanding millions in Bitcoin for release of Savannah Guthrie's mother

A message claiming to be a ransom demand connected to the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie’s mother was delivered to TMZ on Tuesday with other outlets receiving similar demands. The notes demanded several million dollars in Bitcoin in exchange for the 84-year-old's release.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said the department knew about the document, and said there was a “possible random notes circulating.” However, they did not confirm that it was authentic. Authorities believe that Nancy Guthrie, 84, was abducted sometime overnight from January 31 to February 1.

“We are aware of reports circulating about possible ransom notes regarding the investigation,” Sheriff Chris Nanos said in a statement. “We are taking all tips and leads very seriously.”

“Anything that comes in goes directly to our detectives who are coordinating with the FBI,” he added. After TMZ reported that they got the ransom letter, Mary Coleman, a news anchor at KOLD in Tucson, Arizona posted to X that their newsroom also got a demand of ransom. 

“Our newsroom also received what appears to be a ransom note, and we have sent it to law enforcement. I will be out in the field working on this story and speaking with officials tonight and will share any info we confirm,” Coleman said.

TMZ reported that the ransom note also included a deadline connected to the payment. Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her residence in Tucson after being driven home by Savannah’s sister at about 9:30 pm on Saturday. Police investigating her home said that it appears she was violently abducted in the night.

TMZ reported that the letter it obtained appeared to reference specific aspects of the scene at Nancy’s house and provided an active Bitcoin wallet where the funds were to be deposited. Investigators have previously said they believe she was taken from the property, but Nanos avoided commenting on motives or any extortion element.

“We have all kinds of investigative leads we’re working on,” was all he would tell reporters during a Tuesday press conference.

According to the New York Post, some electronic devices needed by Nancy to coordinate with her pacemaker were also left at the home. The Ring camera was also removed from outside the front door.

The devices reportedly ceased syncing with her pacemaker around 2 am, suggesting she was removed from the home at that time. Concern has intensified because she was said to be without medication that she is required to take daily to survive.