On Thursday afternoon, TMZ disclosed that it received a follow-up email from an individual seeking one bitcoin in exchange for revealing the identity of Nancy Guthrie’s alleged abductor.
The sender expressed frustration, stating, “I am not being taken seriously,” according to the report.
The individual, according to TMZ, is requesting a payment of one bitcoin—currently valued at approximately $65,000—to ensure their safety by staying under the radar, fearing repercussions for exposing the kidnapper’s identity.
An FBI billboard in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is actively raising awareness about the ongoing search for the missing Nancy Guthrie, reported by KRQE.
The email sender also claimed this would be their final demand, voicing concern over potential self-incrimination akin to Carlos Palazuelos, who was recently detained and questioned in Rio Rico, Arizona, on Tuesday night.
As of now, TMZ confirms that no bitcoin transaction has taken place.
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
