FBI pledges $50K reward in Nancy Guthrie case and arrests man over fake ransom demand

TUCSON, ARIZONA: Federal investigators escalated their search for Nancy Guthrie on Thursday, February 5, announcing a $50,000 reward for information leading to the recovery, while also revealing that an arrest had already been made in connection with a fake ransom note exploiting the case.

The announcement came during a press conference held by the Pima County Sheriff’s Office, where the FBI detailed the expanding scope of its involvement in the disappearance of the mother of 'Today' show co-host Savannah Guthrie.

FBI ramps up resources as case intensifies

Heith Janke, the special agent in charge, said that the bureau had significantly increased manpower and technical resources as the investigation entered a critical phase.

“We’re going to start today by announcing a $50,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of Nancy Guthrie and or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance,” Janke said.

According to Janke, additional agents and specialized teams have been deployed to Arizona, including federal experts brought in from Quantico, Virginia.

“We have brought in our critical incident response group from Quantico,” he said, adding that members of the bureau’s cellular analysis survey team were also working the case. “They continue to collect and process digital information.”

Investigators are combing through a wide range of digital records, including banking activity, phone data, and social media accounts, in an effort to reconstruct Guthrie’s movements and identify any suspicious contact.

“All this information provides data points and helps put the picture together,” Janke said, noting that agents will remain active in the local community as the investigation continues.

Arrest made over impostor ransom note

In a significant development, the FBI also confirmed that one person was arrested on Thursday morning for allegedly attempting to profit from the case by issuing a fake ransom demand.

“My next message is to those impostors who are trying to take advantage and profit from this situation,” Janke warned. “We will investigate and ensure you are held accountable for your actions.”

He said that a criminal complaint related to the false ransom note would be presented to a magistrate judge later in the day, with additional details expected to be released.

Direct appeal to those responsible

Janke closed his remarks with a direct appeal aimed at anyone involved in Guthrie’s disappearance, emphasizing the urgency of the situation given her age and medical needs.

“This is an 84-year-old grandma who needs vital medication for her well-being,” he said. “You still have the time to do the right thing before this becomes a worse- much worse scenario for you. Please return Nancy home.”

Authorities have not identified a suspect or person of interest in Guthrie’s disappearance and continue to urge anyone with credible information to come forward.