Savannah Guthrie, host of the Today Show, released a heartfelt video message on Saturday night addressed to the captors of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie. In the video, she holds hands with her sister Annie and brother Camron, confirming the family has received direct communication from the abductors.
“We received your message, and we understand,” Savannah stated. “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. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”
Background on Nancy Guthrie’s Abduction
Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Tucson, Arizona, home in the early hours of February 1. Ransom notes demanding millions in Bitcoin have surfaced, sent to newsrooms with deadlines including one set for Monday. Authorities have not confirmed the notes’ authenticity, but Savannah’s video suggests the family believes they have legitimate contact with those holding Nancy.
The family previously released a video demanding proof of life after reports of ransom demands emerged. It remains unclear if such proof has been provided.
Escalating Search Efforts
The investigation intensified on Friday evening as forensics teams revisited Nancy’s home for a third time. They seized a car from the garage and a camera from the roof, items overlooked in prior searches.
Pima County Sheriff’s Office noted awareness of a third ransom note sent to a local news outlet. Investigators also identified a vehicle of interest linked to a Circle K convenience store in the Tucson area. A spokesperson for the store confirmed a tip prompted law enforcement involvement, with surveillance footage provided.
Blood droplets were found leading from Nancy’s front door to the driveway, and her Ring doorbell camera was disconnected at 1:47 a.m. on the night of the abduction.
Health Concerns and Official Statements
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated in an NBC News interview that he believes Nancy remains alive. However, he noted the urgency due to her health issues and lack of daily medications.
President Donald Trump commented on the case Friday evening aboard Air Force One, saying the investigation progresses “very well” with “some clues that I think are very strong.” He added, “We could have some answers coming up fairly soon,” citing recent developments.
Hoax Arrest Amid Real Threats
In a related development, California resident Derrick Callella was arrested Thursday for sending hoax ransom texts to Nancy’s daughter Annie and son-in-law Tommaso Cioni. Callella admitted attempting to exploit the situation to elicit a family response. These messages appear separate from those sent to news outlets.
Officials state no suspects are publicly named and have found no evidence linking the abduction to Savannah’s celebrity status, though all possibilities remain under review.
