Authorities have released the full contents of ransom notes sent after the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of "Today" show anchor Savannah Guthrie. The notes, sent to Arizona outlet KOLD-13 on February 2 and February 6, provided chilling details and demanded a multi-million dollar ransom in bitcoin.
The first note, dated February 2, indicated that Nancy Guthrie had been kidnapped and was being held for ransom. It stated that she was "safe but scared" and would be held for a maximum of seven days. The kidnappers demanded $4 million USD in bitcoin by 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, with a threat to increase the ransom to $6 million if the deadline was not met.
"Once payment is received to the bitcoin address below she will be released within 12 hours of deposit to a safe drop off location back in Tucson," the note read. "If payment is not recieved [sic] by the last deadline on Monday the 9th at 5PM, she will be killed."
The note also warned against involving law enforcement, stating, "Your mother is aware of this and her life is in your hands. It is in the best interest of everyone to have this completed as soon as possible. You will not be able to contact me from here on out, there will be no negotiation. Do not play games, law enforcement will not be able to help you."
Details included in the note to prove the kidnappers had Nancy Guthrie were the mention of a white smartwatch left on her bedroom floor and a smashed white floodlight in her backyard. Nancy Guthrie was first reported missing on February 1.
A second note, sent on February 6, claimed that Nancy Guthrie had died. "Guthrie Family, We did not fully grasp the seriousness of her physical condition. We never intended to hurt her, that was not our intention," the note stated. "She perished shortly after she was taken. We believe it was heart related. She is buried in nature now. Nothing you could have done could have changed the outcome. We want your family to know this and hope you all can find peace. We are truly sorry."
Identifying information, including the sender’s name and email address, were redacted from both notes. This is a developing story.