Ex-FBI Agent Says Nancy Guthrie Disappearance Not 'Traditional Kidnapping'

Authorities investigate second ransom message sent to media outlets as they search for the mother of NBC 'Today' co-host Savannah Guthrie.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 1:47am

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A former FBI agent believes that several details surrounding Nancy Guthrie's disappearance and her alleged abductor's actions don't align with a 'traditional kidnapping,' as officials investigate a second message that was sent out on Friday. Guthrie, the mother of NBC 'Today' co-host Savannah Guthrie, was last seen Saturday night after hanging out at a nearby relative's home. At least two authenticated ransom letters have been sent to media outlets in the region, but the former federal investigator says the suspected abduction was about the limelight rather than a typical kidnapping.

Why it matters

The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has garnered national attention, as she is the mother of a high-profile television personality. The case highlights the complexities of kidnapping investigations, especially when the motives of the alleged abductors appear to be more about publicity than a traditional ransom demand.

The details

According to former FBI agent Daniel Brunner, several details about the case don't fit a typical kidnapping scenario. The ransom letters were sent to media outlets rather than directly to Guthrie's family, suggesting the abductors may be seeking attention. Brunner also warned that the more attention the case receives, the more dangerous it could become for Guthrie, as the kidnappers may become nervous and act rashly. Authorities are investigating a second message sent to a local news station on Friday, which they believe may contain information to help verify the authenticity of the initial ransom note.

  • On Saturday night, Nancy Guthrie was last seen after hanging out at a nearby relative's home.
  • Family members reported Guthrie missing just after noon on Saturday.
  • The first ransom letter was sent to media outlets on Tuesday, demanding millions in Bitcoin and setting a deadline of 5 p.m. Thursday for Guthrie's release.
  • A second ransom letter was sent to a local news station on Friday, under a different IP address than the first note.
  • President Trump suggested on Friday that new evidence in the search could provide 'definitive' answers to what happened to Guthrie.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of NBC 'Today' co-host Savannah Guthrie, who was last seen on Saturday night and is the subject of an ongoing kidnapping investigation.

Savannah Guthrie

The co-host of NBC's 'Today' show, who is the daughter of the missing Nancy Guthrie.

Daniel Brunner

A former FBI agent with 20 years of experience, who believes the details surrounding Nancy Guthrie's disappearance do not align with a 'traditional kidnapping.'

President Trump

The current President of the United States, who suggested that new evidence in the search for Nancy Guthrie could provide 'definitive' answers.

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What they’re saying

“They want attention, they want the spotlight to be put on this incident.”

— Daniel Brunner, Former FBI Agent

“The more attention this gets, the more dangerous it is for Guthrie.”

— Daniel Brunner, Former FBI Agent

“Because if it gets more attention, the kidnappers may do something rash because they're getting so nervous about the circle closing in on them.”

— Daniel Brunner, Former FBI Agent

“I think we are doing very well, very well meaning we have some clues that I think are very strong, and I think we could have some answers coming up fairly soon.”

— President Trump

What’s next

The FBI and Pima County Sheriff's Department are actively investigating the authenticity of the second ransom message sent to a local news station on Friday, which could provide more clues about the case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex and unpredictable nature of kidnapping investigations, where the motives of the alleged abductors may not align with a traditional ransom demand. The high-profile nature of the victim and the attention the case has garnered could also be a factor in the actions of the suspected kidnappers, raising concerns about the safety of Nancy Guthrie.