A second note regarding Nancy Guthrie's disappearance stated that the 84-year-old had died, according to reports from ABC, NBC, and CNN, all citing anonymous sources. The message, delivered to media outlets after Guthrie's kidnapping this past winter, differed significantly from an earlier ransom note, according to Jessica Bobula, news director at KOLD, a local TV station that received both messages. The initial note demanded millions in cryptocurrency for Guthrie's release.
Second Note Details
The second note said Guthrie had died after her abduction and was buried in nature, sources told ABC News. It did not ask for payment or provide an apology, NBC reported. Both notes have been reviewed by investigators and deemed potentially credible, per NBC. Authorities said the notes likely came from Guthrie's possible abductors and were likely sent from the same IP address, CBS News reported.
Family Response
“Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, one of Nancy Guthrie's children, told NBC in March that she believed two ransom notes the family received and responded to were real. Nancy Guthrie was first reported missing on February 1. Police have said they believe she was taken “against her will” given the circumstances. Footage from her doorbell camera showed a masked individual at her front door on the morning of her disappearance, though police have yet to identify any suspects.
After the second note was shared with local media, Savannah Guthrie and her family posted a message pleading for their mother's return. “We received your message and we understand,” Savannah Guthrie said in a video alongside her brother Camron and sister Annie. “We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace.”
Continued Search
Savannah Guthrie reiterated calls for information in a Mother's Day post in May. “Mother, daughter, sister, Nonie — we miss you with every breath. We will never stop looking for you. We will never be at peace until we find you,” she wrote on Instagram. “Someone knows something that can make the difference. Call 1800CALLFBI. You can be anonymous and the reward remains available. Please keep praying. Bring her home.”
