The Pima County Sheriff's Department released two ransom notes Friday in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, in hopes that the public can identify the author.
Guthrie, 84, was last seen at his Tucson home on January 31. The ransom notes were reportedly sent on February 2 and February 6.
Authorities have not confirmed the authenticity of the notes, but Savannah Guthrie, Guthrie's daughter and a co-host on the "Today" show, has stated she believes they may be legitimate. Investigators have not ruled them out as real, according to reports.
The sheriff's department indicated that the two notes share a "unique linguistic style," suggesting they were written by the same individual. This distinct style, authorities hope, may be recognizable to someone who can provide a tip.
Former FBI special agent Nicole Parker explained the FBI's process for handling ransom notes, noting that some are investigated as legitimate while others are deemed fraudulent, causing further distress to families.
Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or the Pima County Sheriff's Department anonymously at 520-88-CRIME.