Sheriff says newly released ransom notes could crack Nancy Guthrie case

The sheriff leading the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie believes two newly released ransom notes could provide the breakthrough detectives have been searching for, six months after the 84-year-old was abducted from her Arizona home.

Speaking to People, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said investigators decided to publish the notes because they believe the author's distinctive handwriting, language and phrasing could be recognised by someone who knows them. "We hope that by releasing the actual notes that we will get some response from the community," Nanos said, adding that detectives believe "somebody knows something".

The first note, sent shortly after Nancy's disappearance on February 1, demanded millions of dollars in Bitcoin in exchange for her safe return. A second note, received days later, claimed she had died unexpectedly due to health complications and had been buried in a remote natural location. Authorities have not verified the claims in either letter and continue to treat the case as an active kidnapping investigation.

Investigators say the notes contain unique linguistic patterns, syntax and word choices that may help identify the writer. Officials hope someone familiar with those writing habits will come forward with information that could lead to a suspect or reveal what happened to Nancy.

The renewed appeal comes after Savannah Guthrie shared an emotional message on social media, saying her family is "begging for help" and urging anyone with information to contact authorities anonymously. A $1 million reward offered by the Guthrie family, alongside a $100,000 FBI reward, remains available for information leading to Nancy's recovery or an arrest.