A new turning point in the shocking disappearance case: The perpetrator confirms Nancy Guthrie is still alive but is in a state of panic

A new ransom note allegedly sent to “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie has reignited faint hope that her missing mother, Nancy Guthrie, remains alive. The message, reportedly received in mid-February 2026, states that Nancy is “still safe, but scared,” according to sources familiar with the investigation. The note, which surfaced amid a series of purported ransom communications, has been turned over to the FBI and Pima County Sheriff’s Department for verification.

Nancy Guthrie, 84, vanished from her home in the Catalina Foothills area of Tucson, Arizona, late on January 31, 2026. She was last seen on doorbell camera footage around 1:47 a.m., when the device was reportedly disabled or removed. Blood droplets matching her DNA were found on the porch, and her pacemaker stopped transmitting shortly after. No suspects have been publicly identified, and the case remains a high-priority investigation involving the FBI and local authorities.

Multiple ransom notes have been reported since early February. At least three media outlets—TMZ, KOLD News 13, and KGUN—received emails demanding millions in Bitcoin for Nancy’s safe return. One note set deadlines of February 5 and February 9, with escalating sums ($4 million initially, rising to $6 million). The messages included specific, non-public details about the home, such as a damaged floodlight and the location of an Apple Watch, lending them initial credibility. FBI Special Agent Heith Janke described one note as “carefully crafted” and said investigators were taking it seriously, though no proof of life has been provided.

Update expected on search for Savannah Guthrie's missing mom

The latest note, which claims Nancy is “still safe, but scared,” has been described by sources close to the family as offering a sliver of hope amid weeks of anguish. Savannah Guthrie, her siblings, and extended family have publicly pleaded for Nancy’s safe return, posting emotional videos on Instagram stating they are “ready to talk” and prepared to pay if it secures her release. In one message, Savannah said, “We want to hear from you,” addressing potential captors directly while emphasizing the family’s desperation for proof that Nancy is alive.

The case has captivated national attention due to Savannah Guthrie’s high profile and the bizarre elements: blood evidence suggesting violence, a possible white van sighting, and a series of ransom demands sent to media rather than the family. At least one note was deemed fake, leading to an arrest in California of a man attempting to profit from the situation. Others remain under scrutiny, with the FBI coordinating with Mexico authorities amid speculation of cross-border involvement.

Nancy Guthrie requires daily medication, and the family has stressed the urgency of her return due to health concerns. No communication has been confirmed with the sender of the latest note, and deadlines from earlier messages have passed without resolution or proof of life. The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Nancy’s location.

The disappearance has prompted an intense search across the Tucson area, including desert regions near the U.S.-Mexico border. President Biden has expressed concern, and the case has been compared to high-profile abductions due to its unusual features and the involvement of a celebrity family member.

Savannah Guthrie has remained composed yet emotional in public statements, thanking law enforcement and asking for continued prayers. The family has emphasized unity and hope, refusing to give up despite the uncertainty.

As the investigation enters its second month, the latest ransom note has provided a fragile thread of hope that Nancy may still be alive. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward, while the Guthrie family holds onto the possibility that their loved one will soon be safely returned.