The disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie from her quiet home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona, on the early morning of February 1, 2026, has gripped the United States in a wave of shock and speculation. As the mother of beloved NBC “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, her case has drawn intense national attention, blending elements of high-profile celebrity, violent intrusion, and modern ransom tactics involving cryptocurrency.

Nancy was last seen alive on the evening of January 31 after a family dinner. Hours later, around 1:47 a.m., her Nest doorbell camera captured chilling footage of a masked individual approaching the front porch. The suspect, clad in a balaclava, gloves, and carrying a black backpack, appeared to tamper with the camera, attempting to obscure the lens with yard vegetation. A holstered firearm was visible at the waist, suggesting premeditation and potential danger. Authorities describe the person as male, approximately 5’9″ to 5’10” tall with an average build.

Upon discovery, investigators found bloodstains at the scene that forensic tests confirmed matched Nancy’s DNA, heightening fears of violence during the abduction. The home showed signs of forced entry, but no immediate struggle evidence pointed to a quick, targeted operation rather than a random burglary.

In the days following, multiple alleged ransom notes surfaced, sent to media outlets and reportedly demanding millions in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies. Initial demands reportedly sought $6 million with strict deadlines that passed without payment or proof of life. A later note, received by a celebrity news site, escalated the bizarre twist by asking for one Bitcoin—around $67,000—in exchange for the kidnapper’s identity. Authorities have treated these communications cautiously, as their authenticity remains unverified, and no payments have been confirmed.

The FBI, working alongside the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, has intensified efforts. On February 10, they publicly released the doorbell footage and still images, hoping someone recognizes the intruder’s gait, clothing, or overall profile. Tips have poured in—over 13,000 so far—prompting searches of residences and analysis of recovered evidence, including a glove found miles away that may match the suspect’s. A reward fund, boosted by an anonymous donor to $100,000, aims to encourage breakthroughs.

Investigators believe Nancy may still be alive, treating the case as a targeted kidnapping. Speculation about accomplices has grown, with reports of a suspicious vehicle spotted near the home weeks earlier and calls for neighbors’ surveillance footage. Family members, including Savannah Guthrie, have made emotional public pleas for information and her safe return, emphasizing Nancy’s vulnerability as an elderly woman.

As the search enters its third week, the mystery deepens. Was this a botched burglary turned abduction, a calculated ransom plot, or something more sinister? With cryptocurrency demands, a visible armed intruder on camera, and blood evidence, the case echoes infamous historical kidnappings while raising fresh questions about digital extortion in the modern era. The nation watches anxiously for any sign of resolution—and for Nancy Guthrie to come home.