A second ransom note sent to media outlets following the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC's Savannah Guthrie, claims the 84-year-old is dead. The note, sent to multiple outlets including KOLD and TMZ, differs significantly from the first, which demanded cryptocurrency for her release. Investigators believe both notes may be credible, though the second note did not request payment and suggested Guthrie's death was unintentional.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her Tucson, Arizona, home on January 31, 2026. Authorities discovered doorbell camera footage of a masked man outside her residence on the morning of her disappearance, and the FBI has identified him as a suspect. The first ransom note, sent February 2, included specific details about Guthrie's home, such as an Apple Watch on her bedroom floor and a broken back porch light. The second note, sent February 6, stated Guthrie was 'buried with nature now' and did not apologize for her death.
Savannah Guthrie and her siblings addressed the kidnappers in an Instagram video after receiving the second note, pleading for their mother's return. The family has publicly stated they believe the two notes are authentic. The Pima County Sheriff's Department and FBI continue to investigate, treating the case as a homicide due to evidence at the scene, including DNA and Guthrie's limited mobility, which investigators say indicates she did not leave voluntarily.
Harvey Levin of TMZ disputed reports that the second note contained an apology, stating the note he received did not mention Guthrie's death or any remorse. The FBI has not confirmed the authenticity of the second note but is reviewing all communications linked to the case.