FBI Investigates Ransom Notes in Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping Case

Background of the Case

Nancy Guthrie remains missing after being last seen at her Tucson home on January 31. The investigation has been ongoing for six months, with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department releasing two ransom notes in an effort to identify the writer.

Ransom Notes Release

The ransom notes were shared publicly by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, which hopes someone can identify the author due to the unique linguistic style observed in both messages. These notes were sent on February 2 and February 6.

Note Features

The notes contained details about the crime scene, including the location of Guthrie’s Apple Watch and a broken floodlight. Such details were not public knowledge when the notes were sent, indicating the sender may have had inside information about the house.

Former FBI special agent Nicole Parker emphasized the critical role of public assistance in such investigations. The FBI is addressing some ransom demands as legitimate, while others are determined to be fraudulent, adding to the family’s distress.

Investigative Insights

Ex-FBI negotiator Jason Pack noted that the linguistic style suggests a native English speaker, possibly someone familiar with office settings, as the language contained elements typical of business communications.

The sheriff’s department has released Nest video footage from Guthrie’s doorbell camera, suspected to show the masked intruder on two separate days. Investigators are seeking public assistance to identify potential suspects, particularly observing changes in behavior post-release of the video.

How to Assist

Authorities are inviting anyone with information to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or anonymously at 520-88-CRIME. A reward sum exceeding $1.2 million is offered for insights leading to a resolution in the case.

Savannah Guthrie, Nancy’s daughter and co-host of ‘Today,’ has publicly expressed her belief in the authenticity of the notes. She has also made an emotional appeal to her mother’s kidnapper, hoping to establish a new line of communication.