- The case escalated as physical evidence led authorities to treat the disappearance as a kidnapping.
- Bitcoin ransom claims remain unverified with no confirmed contact from a real captor.
- FBI-led investigation continues with no suspects named and a $50,000 reward offered.
The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie, has escalated into a suspected kidnapping investigation as law enforcement examines unverified claims of a Bitcoin ransom. Investigators say the case remains active, with no confirmed proof of life and no verified communication from a captor.
Nancy Guthrie vanished from her home in the Catalina Foothills area near Tucson, Arizona, after family members last saw her on the evening of January 31. Concern grew the following morning when she failed to attend church. Her phone, wallet, car, and medication were left behind.
Deputies responding to the scene discovered blood spatter at the entrance of her residence. Forensic testing later confirmed the blood belonged to Nancy Guthrie, prompting authorities to elevate the case from a missing-person report to a suspected kidnapping. Investigators also determined that the home’s doorbell camera had been removed or disabled.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is leading the investigation with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Officials say they have identified no suspects and continue to assess all available evidence.
Bitcoin Ransom Messages Under Review
The investigation took a new turn after media outlets received alleged ransom communications referencing a Bitcoin payment and providing a cryptocurrency wallet address. Reports described demands for millions of dollars’ worth of Bitcoin and included multiple deadlines.
Authorities have not confirmed the authenticity of any ransom note. Investigators stressed that no verified captor has contacted the family directly. As a result, the Bitcoin ransom element remains unproven and under active review.
Separate Crypto Scam Arrest
In a related but separate development, law enforcement arrested Derrick Callella, a California man accused of sending fraudulent Bitcoin-related messages to members of the Guthrie family. Officials stated that Callella acted independently and is not connected to the disappearance.
As the search continues, Savannah Guthrie has stepped away from her duties on Today. At a press briefing, the FBI announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie’s rescue or the arrest of those responsible.
Related: Binance Report Uncovers Shocking US Lead in Crypto Abduction Cases
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