In a startling development, the kidnapping case of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of television host Savannah Guthrie, has taken another strange turn with the emergence of a new ransom note. This latest communication, sent to the gossip website TMZ, demands a payment of $67,000 in bitcoin in exchange for revealing the identity of the individual involved in the abduction.
Details of the Cryptocurrency Demand
The note, which was forwarded to the Federal Bureau of Investigation by TMZ, specifies that one bitcoin must be sent to a confirmed active wallet address. Harvey Levin, the host of Fox News, disclosed that the message emphasized that time is more than relevant, though it remains unclear whether the demand is legitimate. Authorities are scrutinizing this development as part of the wider probe into the kidnapping, which occurred from Guthrie's Tucson mansion between late January 31 and early February 1.
Previous Communications and Investigation Updates
This marks at least the third ransom note linked to the case, following earlier ones also sent to TMZ. Notably, the bitcoin address in this latest note differs from those in previous communications, adding complexity to the investigation. The FBI has been actively involved, releasing images and video footage from Nancy Guthrie's Nest doorbell camera that show a masked suspect attempting to obscure the lens with shrubs.
Key evidence from the footage includes the suspect wearing a ski mask, gloves, a jacket, and a backpack, with an unholstered gun visibly positioned in the front of their pants. A delivery driver was initially detained but later cleared of involvement, leaving the perpetrator's identity still unknown.
Concerns for Nancy Guthrie's Health
Amid the ongoing search, there are growing fears for Nancy Guthrie's well-being. She relies on a pacemaker and requires daily medication to manage her health conditions, raising urgent concerns about her safety during the captivity. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has issued a missing person alert, and the case continues to draw national attention due to its connection to the high-profile Today show host.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in resolving this puzzling and distressing situation. More updates are expected as law enforcement agencies work tirelessly to secure Nancy Guthrie's safe return.
