US television anchor Savannah Guthrie has issued an emotional public appeal to the people believed to have kidnapped her mother, saying her family is prepared to pay for her safe return.
In a video posted to Instagram on Saturday evening, Guthrie appeared alongside her two siblings and addressed an apparent message sent by the abductors. “We received your message, and we understand,” she said. “We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us. And we will pay.”
Authorities say Nancy Guthrie vanished overnight from her home in Tucson, Arizona, last weekend and is believed to have been taken against her will. Investigators have not yet identified a suspect or person of interest and are offering a $50,000 reward for information.
Concern was raised when members of Nancy Guthrie’s church reported she did not attend Sunday services. Investigators later discovered a doorbell camera at her home had been disconnected early Sunday morning. Around 2:28am local time, the app linked to her implanted pacemaker was also disconnected from her phone.
The FBI is examining a potential ransom message sent to several media outlets. Special Agent Heith Janke said the note included specific facts, a deadline, and a monetary demand. A local CBS affiliate confirmed receiving a message, while it was reported that kidnappers demanded millions of dollars in cryptocurrency.
The family has released multiple videos seeking proof that Nancy Guthrie is alive and asking to communicate directly with those responsible. Her son, Camron Guthrie, said the family has not yet had direct contact with kidnappers.
Authorities arrested one individual last week in connection with a fake ransom note, though the investigation remains ongoing. Law enforcement and family members warn Nancy Guthrie may be in serious danger without her medication.
President Donald Trump said he has spoken with Savannah Guthrie and offered federal assistance, while Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said investigators are operating under the belief that Nancy Guthrie is still alive. “Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home,” he said.
Savannah Guthrie, 54, has co-anchored NBC News’ TODAY since 2012 and serves as the network’s chief legal correspondent.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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