Story perspectives

Kidnapper Demands $6 Million Bitcoin for Savannah Guthrie’s Mother

8/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pima County Sheriff’s Department released two ransom notes linked to the February 1 kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, mother of “Today” host Savannah Guthrie.
The February 2 note demanded $4 million Bitcoin, increased to $6 million by February 9 5 p.m., and cited a white smartwatch and floodlight.
Police released doorbell-camera video possibly showing an unidentified male preparing the crime on January 31–February 1.
The FBI and local agencies offered a $1,202,500 reward for tips.

History

Historical Context

After the FBI dismantled Ross Ulbricht’s Silk Road darknet market in October 2013—seizing 26,000 bitcoins worth about $3.6 million—the United States began targeting cryptocurrency-based crime. That precedent shaped today’s national cross-agency response to the February 2024 ransomware notes demanding Bitcoin, prompting the FBI, Secret Service and IRS to coordinate an intensified swift investigation.

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Story summary

Pima County Sheriff’s Department released two ransom notes linked to the February 1 kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, mother of “Today” host Savannah Guthrie.
The February 2 note demanded $4 million Bitcoin, increased to $6 million by February 9 5 p.m., and cited a white smartwatch and floodlight.
Police released doorbell-camera video possibly showing an unidentified male preparing the crime on January 31–February 1.
The FBI and local agencies offered a $1,202,500 reward for tips.

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