NBC Today Show Host’s Mother Kidnapped for Bitcoin Ransom?

Nancy Guthrie, an elderly 84-year-old woman, vanished overnight in Arizona, triggering a high-stakes investigation with alleged crypto demands. 

She is the mother of popular NBC journalist and TODAY show host Savannah Guthrie. Authorities believe she was likely taken from her home after a violent encounter.

Blood at the Doorstep Turns Missing Case Criminal

Investigators found blood spatter at the entrance of her residence in the Catalina Foothills area near Tucson, Arizona. Forensic testing confirmed the blood belonged to Nancy Guthrie, according to law enforcement.

As a result, what began as a missing-person report has escalated into a suspected kidnapping investigation.

More footage shows blood, missing Ring doorbell camera at the home of Nancy Guthrie pic.twitter.com/pbubB0trFw https://t.co/p32kkypE7P

— BensonNewsHub (@BensonNewsHub) February 3, 2026

Nancy Guthrie lived a private, low-profile life and was not a public figure. She became nationally known only because of her daughter’s role as a senior anchor on NBC’s Today.

Family members last saw her on the evening of January 31 after dropping her home. She failed to attend church the next morning, raising immediate concern.

Her phone, wallet, car, and medication were all left behind.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance from the FBI, is leading the investigation.

Deputies also discovered that her doorbell camera had been removed or disabled, reinforcing concerns that she did not leave voluntarily.

So far, authorities have named no suspects and confirmed no proof of life.

Amid the ongoing search for Savannah Guthrie's mom Nancy Guthrie, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos shared a full timeline they've created based on the electronics processed in the case. https://t.co/6ZsKl9I1Mn pic.twitter.com/dxynQqhitN

— E! News (@enews) February 6, 2026 Bitcoin Ransom Claims Add a Crypto Twist

The case took a darker turn after multiple alleged ransom communications surfaced, some referencing Bitcoin payments.

Media reports describe a purported ransom note demanding “millions of dollars’ worth of Bitcoin”, complete with deadlines and a wallet address.