Nancy Guthrie Ransom Note Writer, Who Wants Bitcoin for Suspect’s Identity, Fears ‘Retaliation’

It appears the same person who claims to have information on the person who allegedly abducted Savannah Guthrie’s 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, has made another demand for money.

After TMZ received a message on Wednesday, February 11, that requested the Today anchor, 54, and her family send over 1 Bitcoin (approximately $66,600) in exchange for information on a potential suspect, the outlet received a follow-up.

That same person contacted TMZ on Thursday, February 12, and said, “I am not being taken seriously.”

“He says that he wants the Bitcoin, which is worth around $67,000, for several reasons,” said TMZ founder Harvey Levin. “No. 1: He says by coming forward, he will become, as he puts it, a ‘national rat.’”

According to Levin, the sender also “doesn’t want to become incriminated” like Carlos Palazuelos, who was questioned by authorities earlier this week but released after saying he didn’t know Nancy.

The sender also said that “he fears retaliation if he comes forward,” said Levin, “and that he needs the Bitcoin because he’s going to have to lay low after coming forward.”

Levin said that the sender also talked about “a difference between yesterday and today” that is “chilling,” but he can’t get into specifics because TMZ is working closely with law enforcement.

According to Levin, the sender “makes it very clear here that this will be his second and last attempt.”

TMZ reported that the Bitcoin address did not have funds distributed into it when they last checked.

On Tuesday, law enforcement released new video footage showing who they say is an “armed individual” appearing to tamper with the camera at Nancy’s front door the morning of her disappearance.

According to the FBI, Nancy “is considered to be a vulnerable adult who has difficulty walking, has a pacemaker, and needs daily medication for a heart condition.”

She was reported missing on February 1 by family members. Savannah and her family said in an emotional plea via her Instagram that they are willing to pay for Nancy’s return.

Nancy is described as 5 feet, 5 inches tall and weighs around 150 pounds; she has brown hair and blue eyes.

People with any information regarding the case are asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). You may also contact your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or you can submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.