Bitcoin has surfaced at the center of a troubling, high‑profile ransom story as authorities investigate the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84‑year‑old mother of NBC “Today” co‑host Savannah Guthrie. What happened - Nancy Guthrie vanished from her upscale Tucson, Arizona, home on January 31. Reports say investigators found disturbing signs at the residence, including blood on the front porch and the removal of a doorbell camera. - In the days after her disappearance, ransom messages reportedly began circulating to news organizations demanding payment in Bitcoin. A new twist: an offer for information — for crypto - This week brought a surprising development: TMZ reported it received a new note that appears to offer the identity of an individual connected to the case in exchange for cryptocurrency. The outlet said the message included what it described as an active Bitcoin wallet address and read in part: “If they want the name of the individual involved then I want 1 Bitcoin to the following wallet. Time is more than relevant.” - The note was described to media as coming from someone offering information, rather than from the original alleged kidnappers. Why Bitcoin is showing up - Ari Redbord, global head of policy at blockchain intelligence firm TRM Labs, told Fox News Digital that cryptocurrency makes it possible to move large sums quickly — a feature that can attract criminals. He also noted, however, that a 1‑BTC demand is modest relative to the enormous transfers that typically trigger major alerts in large‑scale crypto crime investigations. “It would get more alerting if it was $60 million or $600 million,” he said. Law enforcement response and family plea - The FBI is actively investigating and has offered a reward of up to $50,000 for information that leads to Nancy Guthrie’s recovery or to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible. - Savannah Guthrie posted on social media expressing hope and urgency: “We believe she is still out there. Bring her home.” Market context - At the time of reporting, Bitcoin was trading at $67,598 — nearly 47% below the $126,000 peak cited from last October’s rally. The situation remains fluid. Authorities are continuing their investigation, and media organizations that received alleged ransom communications have publicly shared details as the case develops. Read more AI-generated news on: undefined/news

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