Ransom Note in Nancy Guthrie Disappearance Suggests Non-Intentional Death, Authorities Withhold Details

A ransom note connected to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, reportedly states that she died, according to CNN and other news organizations citing law enforcement sources. The note’s contents have not been publicly released, as authorities and media outlets involved in the case have agreed to withhold details that could interfere with efforts to verify future communications from anyone connected to the disappearance. CNN reported that one note indicated Nancy Guthrie’s death was not allegedly intentional and that she died shortly after she vanished from her Arizona home. Authorities have not publicly confirmed the note’s authenticity or provided details about the investigation. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department declined to comment on the reported contents of the note, while the FBI did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Guthrie family has also not made a public statement regarding the reports. Investigators have said they believe Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will after finding blood near the entrance of her home outside Tucson. The FBI later released surveillance footage showing a masked individual near the property around the time she disappeared. The case has drawn a massive search effort involving law enforcement officers, volunteers and search teams who have combed desert areas surrounding Tucson and beyond. Despite the extensive efforts, Nancy Guthrie has not been found. Savannah Guthrie returned to the “Today” show on Monday for the first time since her mother’s disappearance, saying it was difficult but meaningful to be back at the anchor desk. Her family previously made emotional public appeals for help, urging anyone with information to contact investigators.

Timeline of the Nancy Guthrie disappearance investigation

Jan. 31: Nancy Guthrie was last seen after being dropped off at her Tucson-area home following a family dinner.

Feb. 1: Family members reported her missing after she failed to attend church. Investigators launched a search involving drones, dogs and additional resources. Authorities later said they believed she was abducted or otherwise taken against her will.

Feb. 2–10: Reports emerged of alleged ransom communications connected to the case. Authorities investigated the messages and searched for evidence. The FBI later released surveillance footage showing a person near Guthrie’s home who appeared to tamper with a doorbell camera.

Feb. 12: The FBI increased a reward for information leading to Nancy Guthrie or an arrest and conviction. The Guthrie family acknowledged that they feared Nancy might not be alive as they continued to seek answers. Savannah Guthrie spoke publicly about the emotional toll of the disappearance, saying her family remained in anguish while hoping for answers.