Authorities in Arizona are responding to mounting public concern after reports surfaced of possible ransom notes tied to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of TODAY show host Savannah Guthrie.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department acknowledged the reports in a post on X, stating it is “aware of reports circulating about possible ransom note(s) regarding the investigation into Nancy Guthrie).” The department emphasized that all tips and leads are being taken seriously and that any information received “goes directly to our detectives who are coordinating with the FBI.”
The statement comes as TMZ reported receiving what it described as an alleged ransom note demanding payment in exchange for Nancy Guthrie’s release. According to the report, the message was sent Tuesday morning and includes a demand for a substantial amount of Bitcoin, with the figure reportedly reaching into the millions. The note allegedly provides a specific Bitcoin address and includes a deadline, along with an implied threat if the demand is not met.
The post appeared to be in response to a report from TMZ, which said early Tuesday evening that it had received an alleged, unverified ransom note demanding millions in Bitcoin in exchange for the release of Nancy Guthrie. pic.twitter.com/46qBErqeDl
— FOX21 News (@FOX21News) February 4, 2026
TMZ reported that it verified the Bitcoin address included in the note is legitimate, adding another unsettling layer to an already disturbing case. The alleged ransom message also contains specific details about Nancy Guthrie and her home, including references to items connected to her disappearance.
During a live discussion of the note, TMZ’s Harvey Levin and Charles Latibeaudiere said the message referenced an item Nancy Guthrie was supposedly wearing. They later clarified that the note actually states she was not wearing that particular item. The message also allegedly describes damage to another item at her Tucson-area residence, suggesting the sender may have direct knowledge of the scene.
“The note, which was sent to us Tuesday morning, demands a specific substantial amount of Bitcoin…”
Why would the kidnappers of Savannah Guthrie’s mom send a ransom note to TMZ? pic.twitter.com/Fyb5fTm3dB
— Amygator 🐊 *not an actual alligator (@AmyA1A) February 3, 2026
TMZ said it forwarded the alleged ransom demand to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, which has not publicly confirmed the authenticity of the note but reiterated that all credible information is being reviewed by investigators working alongside federal authorities.
Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on Sunday. Law enforcement has classified the case as an abduction, and homicide detectives have been assigned to the investigation, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are treating the disappearance. A missing person poster released by the sheriff’s department has circulated widely as the search continues.
Ransom note to TMZ of all places? That’s either the dumbest kidnappers alive or some sick prankster smelling publicity.
Bitcoin demand screams script-kiddie scam, but those home details are chilling if they’re accurate.
Either way, law enforcement needs to trace every digital…
— Space Cowboy 𝕏 (@SpaceCowboyX) February 3, 2026
As of now, investigators have not released details about suspects or confirmed whether the ransom note is directly connected to the case. Officials have urged the public to avoid speculation and to report any information that could assist in locating Nancy Guthrie.
The case has drawn national attention due to Savannah Guthrie’s high-profile role in media, but authorities have stressed that the focus remains on following evidence, securing leads, and working with federal partners to resolve what has become a rapidly evolving and deeply alarming investigation.
