Nearly six months after 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Tucson home, investigators have publicly released the full text of two key notes in the hope that someone will recognize the writer’s distinctive style and come forward.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI Phoenix Field Office made the messages public on Friday, emphasizing their “distinctive patterns of word choice, syntax, and phraseology.” Authorities believe a friend, relative, coworker or acquaintance of the author may notice the unusual language and provide a breakthrough.

The First Note: A $4 Million Demand
The initial ransom note, sent the day after Nancy disappeared, claimed she was “safe but scared” and demanded $4 million in Bitcoin. It was addressed to her daughter, Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie, and set a firm seven-day deadline.

“We will be holding her for a maximum of 7 days,” the note stated. “If payment is not received by the last deadline on Monday the 9th at 5PM, she will be killed. Your mother is aware of this and her life is in your hands. … There will be no negotiation. Do not play games, law enforcement will not be able to help you.”

The Second Note: A Claim of Death
A follow-up message sent on February 6 abandoned the ransom demand entirely. Directed to the “Guthrie Family,” it claimed Nancy had died shortly after being taken.

“We did not fully grasp the seriousness of her physical condition,” it read. “We never intended to hurt her, that was not our intention. 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.”

Media organizations, including CNN, had previously agreed to withhold the contents of both notes at the request of law enforcement and the family so that any future communications could be authenticated.

Why the Notes Were Released Now
Investigators say the linguistic patterns could help identify the author. They are also asking the public to consider whether anyone they know showed unusual behavior around the time of the disappearance — changes in mood or appearance, unexplained injuries, sudden travel, vehicle cleaning or repair, or an odd interest (or lack of interest) in the case.

A hair sample recovered from the home was tested and returned inconclusive results that did not point to a suspect. Other DNA evidence continues to be analyzed. Doorbell camera footage of a masked individual at the front door remains the primary visual evidence released so far.

Nancy Guthrie was last seen on the evening of January 31, 2026, after being dropped off at her Catalina Foothills residence. She was reported missing the next morning. Her phone and essential medication were left behind.

Savannah Guthrie has continued to issue public appeals, most recently describing the family’s situation as “a nightmare that will not end” and pleading with whoever is responsible to “do the right thing” and help bring her mother home.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI or the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. A substantial reward remains available.

Main Sources: CNN and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department / FBI release of the notes.