In a new development in the ongoing kidnapping case of Nancy Guthrie, a small financial transaction has been made to a Bitcoin account associated with a ransom note. TMZ, the entertainment news outlet that first received a possible ransom note, reported observing this activity on Tuesday, marking the first movement in the account since the abduction drama began. However, TMZ did not disclose the specific amount transferred.
Details of the Payment
Citing an anonymous source, People magazine later revealed that the payment was merely "hundreds of dollars." This was corroborated by KGUN, a Tucson-based television station, which also received the same ransom note containing key details about Guthrie's home. KGUN specified that the transaction was "less than $300." This sum is negligible compared to the staggering $6 million ransom demanded by the alleged kidnapper, who set an initial deadline for payment by February 9. Both this deadline and any subsequent ones have apparently passed without further incident.
Family's Response and Pleas
"Today" show host Savannah Guthrie, along with her siblings, has publicly expressed a willingness to pay the kidnapper to secure their mother's safe return. They have repeatedly pleaded for Nancy Guthrie's release, emphasizing their desperation and hope for her swift recovery. Nancy Guthrie has been missing since the night of January 31, and her disappearance has gripped the nation with concern.
New Evidence and Investigative Leads
The case received a significant jolt on Tuesday when authorities released images from a doorbell camera. The footage shows an apparently armed individual wearing a ski mask and gloves, seemingly tampering with Guthrie's doorbell camera on the night she vanished. This visual evidence provides a crucial lead for investigators, potentially linking the suspect to the crime scene.
Ongoing Police Efforts
In addition to the camera footage, law enforcement has been actively pursuing other leads. A man was detained in connection with the case but was reportedly released as the investigation continues. Authorities also conducted a search of a property in Rio Rico, Arizona, located approximately 60 miles from Nancy Guthrie's home in the Tucson area. These efforts underscore the intensive police work aimed at resolving this high-profile kidnapping.
The combination of the small ransom payment, new surveillance evidence, and ongoing searches highlights the complex and evolving nature of this investigation, as family and authorities alike seek answers and justice.
