Cryptic Bitcoin Demands Complicate Search for Kidnapped TV Host's Mother

Sender claims to know identity of Nancy Guthrie's abductor, but insists on cryptocurrency payment

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:00am

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The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, has taken a bizarre turn as TMZ has received multiple Bitcoin demands for information about her kidnapping. The sender claims to know the identity of the abductor, but is demanding $50,000 in Bitcoin upfront and another $50,000 after delivering the details, despite the FBI's $100,000 reward. The messages hint at an international angle, adding complexity to an already baffling case.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with cryptocurrency-based extortion attempts, as the anonymity of Bitcoin raises questions about the sender's motives and credibility. The family's emotional pleas and the public's interest in the high-profile kidnapping have also thrust this case into the national spotlight.

The details

The sender's latest message to TMZ claims to have seen Nancy Guthrie five days ago south of the border, suggesting the involvement of multiple individuals. This is the second message hinting at an international component. The Bitcoin account matches previous demands, indicating a single person is behind the communications. TMZ has forwarded all messages to the FBI and urged the sender to share information directly to claim the reward without risking exposure, but the sender cites a 10-year-old burglary charge as the reason for their reluctance.

  • The kidnapping occurred two weeks ago from Nancy Guthrie's home.
  • The first Bitcoin demand was received last Wednesday, requesting a single Bitcoin (approximately $67,000) for information about Nancy's whereabouts.
  • Subsequent messages escalated the demands to $50,000 in Bitcoin upfront, followed by another $50,000 after delivering the information about the kidnapper's identity.

The players

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, who was kidnapped from her home.

Savannah Guthrie

The co-host of the Today show, who has made emotional pleas for her mother's safe return.

TMZ

The entertainment news outlet that has received the Bitcoin demands and is working with the FBI on the case.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency that has raised the reward for information about Nancy Guthrie's kidnapping to $100,000.

The Sender

The individual making the Bitcoin demands, who claims to have information about the identity of Nancy Guthrie's abductor.

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What they’re saying

“I know what I saw five days ago south of the border, and I was told to shut up. I know who he is, and that was definitely Nancy with them.”

— The Sender

“Do the right thing. It's never too late.”

— Savannah Guthrie, Today co-host

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the sender out on bail for the 10-year-old burglary charge, which may impact their willingness to come forward with information.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with cryptocurrency-based extortion attempts, as the anonymity of Bitcoin raises questions about the sender's motives and credibility. It also underscores the emotional toll on the Guthrie family and the public's desire for a resolution to this high-profile kidnapping.