Third Nancy Guthrie Ransom Note Sent to TMZ, Including Demand for Bitcoin in Exchange for Information: Report

New Developments in the Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping Case: Bitcoin Ransom Demand

The mysterious disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC “Today” show anchor Savannah Guthrie, has taken a new turn with the arrival of a third ransom note sent to TMZ. This latest note reportedly demands payment of one bitcoin—valued at approximately $67,000—in exchange for revealing the identity of the individual involved in her kidnapping. The note contains a working bitcoin address, adding a digital twist to this already perplexing case.

TMZ host Harvey Levin shared details of the note during an appearance on Fox News’ “America Newsroom,” emphasizing the urgency conveyed by the sender. According to Levin, the note explicitly states, “If they want the name of the individual involved, then I want 1 Bitcoin to the following wallet. Time is more than relevant.” This demand is distinct from the original ransom note, which was sent to local Tucson TV stations and TMZ last week, featuring a different bitcoin address.

Background on Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance

Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen alive on the evening of January 31, 2026, at her home in the Catalina Foothills area north of Tucson, Arizona. She requires daily lifesaving medication and has a pacemaker, making her disappearance particularly urgent. Nancy was dropped off at her home by her son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, who is married to her other daughter, Annie.

Since then, law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, have been actively investigating the case. Surveillance footage from a Nest doorbell camera captured a masked individual approaching Nancy’s home on the night she vanished. The suspect was seen wearing a ski mask, thick gloves, a zipped jacket, and carrying a backpack. Notably, the individual appeared to have a gun holstered unusually on the front of their pants and attempted to cover the camera with shrubbery.

Details and Implications of the Bitcoin Ransom Note

The demand for bitcoin as ransom is a modern twist in kidnapping cases, reflecting the growing use of cryptocurrency in criminal activities due to its relative anonymity and difficulty to trace. The bitcoin address included in the third ransom note has been confirmed as active, but authorities remain cautious about the legitimacy of the demand.

Currently, one bitcoin is worth around $67,000, which exceeds the $50,000 reward offered by law enforcement for information leading to the kidnappers. TMZ has forwarded the ransom note to the FBI for further investigation.

The use of bitcoin in ransom demands raises complex challenges for investigators, as cryptocurrency transactions are decentralized and encrypted. This could potentially complicate efforts to track down the perpetrators or recover any funds paid.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Response

In the days following Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, investigators have uncovered additional clues, including a mysterious black glove found near her home that may contain crucial DNA evidence. The FBI has also released the first images and videos of the suspect captured on surveillance footage, providing the public with a clearer picture of the individual involved.

A FedEx delivery driver, Carlos Palazuelos, was briefly detained during the investigation but later released without charges after a search of his home. Palazuelos claimed he was unaware of Nancy Guthrie or the ongoing case.

The case has garnered significant media attention, with “Today” show viewership surging as anchor Savannah Guthrie’s mother remains missing. The public continues to follow developments closely, hoping for a breakthrough that will lead to Nancy’s safe return.

Conclusion: The Search Continues Amid Bitcoin Ransom Demand

The emergence of a third ransom note demanding bitcoin payment adds a new layer of complexity to the Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case. While the authenticity of the note remains unconfirmed, it highlights the evolving nature of ransom demands in the digital age. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate all leads, urging anyone with information to come forward.

If you have any information regarding Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance or the ransom demands, please contact the FBI or local authorities immediately. Your tip could be crucial in bringing Nancy home safely.

Stay informed and follow trusted news sources for updates on this developing story.