Harrigan expanded on that point, noting that criminals operating within the U.S. would naturally assume dollar amounts without clarification.
“If you’re domestic, why would you ever put ‘USD?’ You put six million,” he added.
The ransom note reportedly demands payment in Bitcoin, while still specifying the amount in U.S. dollars—a combination that investigators say is unusual and potentially suspicious. The note also outlined two separate deadlines: one set for Thursday at 5 p.m. Mountain Time, and another the following Monday, with the ransom amount increasing if the first deadline was missed.
Despite the alarming nature of the demand, authorities say the sender has gone silent. Since the note was first distributed to media outlets last week, there has been no direct contact with law enforcement or the Guthrie family. Investigators remain unsure whether the threat is real or an elaborate hoax.
At this stage, there are still no named suspects, no persons of interest, and no suspect vehicles connected to Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, according to reporting from the New York Post. Law enforcement has acknowledged ongoing investigative activity but is withholding details.
“Detectives and agents continue to conduct follow-up at multiple locations. Details of that follow-up are not being released at this time,” the Pima County, Ariz., Sheriff’s Department noted on Sunday.
The Nancy Guthrie investigation is ongoing. Follow-up continues at multiple locations. No suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles have been identified. No scheduled press briefings. If any significant developments occur in the case, a press conference will be called.
— Pima County Sheriff's Department (@PimaSheriff) February 8, 2026
As of Monday, eight days have passed since Nancy Guthrie vanished. A new deadline referenced in the ransom note is rapidly approaching, adding to the urgency—and anxiety—surrounding the case.
Over the weekend, Savannah Guthrie appeared publicly alongside her siblings, Camron and Annie, releasing an emotional video appeal directed at whoever may be holding their mother. The family pleaded for her safe return and made clear they were willing to meet the ransom demand.
“We beg you now to return our mother to us, so that we can celebrate with her,” Guthrie said the family was willing to pay for the octogenarian’s return.
Savannah Guthrie reiterated the family’s desperation and desire for peace in the emotional message.
“We received your message and we understand,” the “Today” anchor said. “We beg you now to return our mother to us, so that we can celebrate with her.
“This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay,” she added.
Meanwhile, the search effort has expanded beyond Arizona. Billboards featuring Nancy Guthrie’s image have been placed in high-traffic areas across neighboring states in hopes of generating leads in the case.
Yet even as public sympathy pours in, some former federal officials are expressing serious doubts about the kidnappers’ claims. Former FBI Assistant Director Chris Swecker voiced skepticism during an appearance on Fox News.
“I’m very skeptical of this,” former FBI Assistant Director Chris Swecker told Fox News’ “The Big Weekend Show” on Sunday.
Swecker openly questioned whether Nancy Guthrie is actually alive—or even in the custody of kidnappers at all.
“Is this really a kidnapping? Does somebody really have her, and is she really alive?” he said of those claiming to have her.
Law enforcement activity around the Guthrie family has also intensified. On Saturday, police were seen leaving the Tucson home of Annie Guthrie, Savannah’s sister, wearing gloves and carrying brown bags—suggesting evidence collection as the investigation entered its seventh day.
According to NewsNation, flashes from cameras illuminated the darkened windows of the home during a late-night search. Officers reportedly remained inside for nearly three hours.
Afterward, authorities exited the residence still wearing blue gloves and holding brown bags, the Post reported separately.
The family has also requested additional security at Nancy Guthrie’s residence amid growing public attention and concern.
“At the request of the Guthrie family, PCSD will maintain a presence at Nancy Guthrie’s residence for security,” a statement from the sheriff’s department says on X. “Media & the public are reminded to follow all traffic & private property laws.”
At the request of the Guthrie family, PCSD will maintain a presence at Nancy Guthrie’s residence for security. Media & the public are reminded to follow all traffic & private property laws. No trespassing is allowed on the Guthrie property. Violations are subject to enforcement.
— Pima County Sheriff's Department (@PimaSheriff) February 8, 2026
The department issued a final warning to onlookers and reporters.
“No trespassing is allowed on the Guthrie property,” the statement continues. “Violations are subject to enforcement.”
As the deadline looms and unanswered questions mount, investigators—and the nation—are left watching closely, hoping for clarity in a case that grows more unsettling by the day.
