The search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie, continues into its second week as another potential ransom deadline approaches.
The FBI is investigating two emails, including one containing a ransom note with a deadline set for later on Monday. A previous deadline of 5 p.m. Thursday has already passed, according to authorities. Ransom payment has been demanded in bitcoin.
Savannah Guthrie and her two siblings released a third videotaped plea over the weekend, appealing to whoever may be holding their 84-year-old mother, who was reported missing on February 1 from her Arizona home. The sheriff has described the disappearance as an “overnight abduction.”
“We received your message and we understand,” Savannah Guthrie said in the video released Saturday. “We beg you now to return our mother to us so that People can celebrate with her. Here’s the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us and we will pay.”
An FBI spokesman stated that Savannah Guthrie was referencing a message sent to CBS News’ Tucson affiliate, KOLD, on Friday. KOLD previously received a message earlier last week that included a demand for payment, but the station has chosen not to release details of the message, citing respect for the family and the ongoing investigation.
It remains unconfirmed whether the messages are credible.
Search Includes Gas Stations and Septic Tank
Increased police presence was observed at Nancy Guthrie’s home over the weekend. On Sunday, investigators searched what appeared to be a septic tank in the backyard.
FBI agents removed a camera from the roof of Nancy Guthrie’s home and towed a dark-colored SUV from her garage on Friday. Former FBI agent Jason Pack noted that vehicles may contain Starlink or GPS data that could provide further information.
CBS News reported that investigators are canvassing nearby gas stations, reviewing surveillance footage from around the time of Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance.
Prayers for Nancy Guthrie’s Return
Parishioners at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church offered prayers on Sunday for their fellow member, Nancy Guthrie. Reverend Dr. John Tittle said, “We pray for Nancy’s rescue, we pray for her release, we pray that she will be brought safely home.”
Missing persons billboards featuring Nancy Guthrie’s details and an FBI phone number have been placed in neighboring states. Anyone with information is asked to call 520-882-7463.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Nancy Guthrie reported missing?
Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on February 1.
What is the FBI doing to find Nancy Guthrie?
The FBI is investigating two emails, including a ransom note and has been seen searching Nancy Guthrie’s property and canvassing nearby gas stations.
Has a ransom been demanded?
Yes, ransom payment has been demanded in bitcoin. The amount has reportedly increased from $1 million to $6 million.
What role might surveillance footage play in locating Nancy Guthrie and those potentially involved in her disappearance?
