Bitcoin Ransom Drama: Second Letter Emerges in Guthrie Kidnapping Case

On Thursday afternoon, TMZ revealed that it had received a follow-up email from an individual demanding one bitcoin in exchange for revealing the identity of Nancy Guthrie’s alleged abductor.

The email reportedly included a plea from the sender, stating, “I am not being taken seriously,” as they sought to emphasize the gravity of their claim.

The sender insisted on receiving one bitcoin, currently valued at approximately $65,000, as a means to “lay low,” citing concerns about potential retaliation should they disclose the kidnapper’s name.

Meanwhile, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, an FBI billboard continues to spotlight the ongoing search for the missing Nancy Guthrie.

The email’s author also mentioned that this would be their final request, expressing fear of ending up in a similar situation to Carlos Palazuelos, who was recently detained and questioned in Rio Rico, Arizona.

The outlet says no bitcoin has been exchanged. 

Former FBI Assistant Director Chris Swecker told Fox News’ “The Faulkner Focus” he was “highly skeptical” regarding a first email requesting money in exchange for the kidnapper’s name that was sent to TMZ Wednesday. 

FBI agents canvass homes near Nancy Guthrie’s home in Tucson, Friday, Feb. 6, 2026.  (Kat Ramirez for Fox News Digital)

“I just don’t think anything TMZ has brought forward has panned out. I mean it’s a good vehicle for people to come in and do this. TMZ gets some viewership, and it sort of ties up the investigative team trying to run this down. But I sense a scam here,” Swecker said.

Swecker added he “may be absolutely wrong,” but “bottom line” is he’s “very skeptical of it.” 

Neighbors of Nancy Guthrie, the daughter of “Today” host Savannah Guthrie, show support for the family in metro Tucson, Ariz., Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, as the search continues to find Nancy, who was reported missing.  (Sejal Govindarao/AP Photo)

Nancy Guthrie disappearance timeline: 
January 31, 2026
 • Between 9:30–9:45 p.m. — Family drops Nancy off at home
 • 9:50 p.m. — Garage door closes (per authorities)
February 1, 2026
• 1:47 a.m. — Doorbell camera disconnects
• 2:12 a.m. — Security camera detects motion
• 2:28 a.m. — Pacemaker disconnects from phone application
• 11:56 a.m. — Family checks on Nancy after she misses weekly church livestream gathering
• 12:03 p.m. — 911 called
• 12:15 p.m. — sheriff’s deputies arrive at home