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Authorities Release Two Ransom Notes in Nancy Guthrie Case as Scrutiny Grows

Investigators hope distinctive wording will prompt linguistic or forensic leads during an ongoing, time‑intensive probe.

Overview

  • Investigators treat the case as a suspected abduction after Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her Catalina Foothills home and reported missing on Feb. 1, and no suspect has been publicly identified.
  • Pima County released two ransom notes on July 31 to solicit tips based on phrasing and handwriting; the first demanded $4 million in bitcoin and the second said Guthrie “perished shortly after she was taken,” a claim officials have not verified.
  • Authorities continue complex forensic and digital work including DNA testing of blood found at the home and review of Nest doorbell footage that shows a masked figure on the porch, and officials say analysis is time‑intensive.
  • The timing and handling of early evidence have prompted national criticism and a public dispute over FBI access, with President Trump and former and retired investigators publicly questioning the sheriff’s early steps.
  • The Guthrie family has renewed public pleas, reported small bitcoin transactions to the sender, and federal and family rewards totaling about $1.1–$1.2 million remain available for information leading to Nancy’s location or arrests.