Nancy Guthrie went missing from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1. The latest worrying development comes after police released two ransom notes apparently written by the kidnappers

Police have released two ransom notes apparently written by the kidnappers of US broadcaster Savannah Guthrie ’s mother.

Pima County Sheriff’s (PCS) Department released the letters on Friday as part of their investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie , who went missing from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1.

The sheriff’s department published two notes which were sent to local and national media in February, in the hope that someone will recognise the writing style.

A press release shared on PCS’s X account said the letters “provide valuable insight into the person’s mindset, motives and the evolution of their tone over time”. It added: “We believe these distinctive linguistic characteristics may be recognisable to someone who knows or has interacted with the notes’ writer.” The first note, sent on February 2 and addressed to Savannah Guthrie , said her mother was safe “but scared” and included a threat to kill her if the ransom was not met. The note said Mrs Guthrie would be released unharmed once her captors received four million dollars (£3 million) in cryptocurrency, with the ransom amount increasing if the first demand was not met. The note read: “You will not be able to contact me from here on out, there will be no negotiation. Do not play games, law enforcement will not be able to help you.” The second note, addressed to the Guthrie family, said Mrs Guthrie died shortly after she was taken.

“We did not fully grasp the seriousness of her physical condition. We never intended to hurt her. She perished shortly after she was taken. We believe it was heart related. She is buried in nature now. “Nothing you could have done could have changed the outcome. We want your family to know this and hope you all can find peace. We are truly sorry.” The sheriff’s department said two videos from Mrs Guthrie ’s doorbell camera show an unidentified man “took steps to prepare for the event on the night of January 31 to February 1”. Authorities appealed to the public to come forward with any information they may have to help identify the kidnappers.

Savannah continues to hold out hope for her 84-year-old mum's return, and recently made yet another plea to any alleged kidnappers. The Today Show host took to Instagram to plead directly to anyone involved in her mum's disappearance.

Within her video post, she said: "I am coming on today with a very specific message," as she opened her statement. "It has been months since our mom was taken from us. Our family is in agony. We are in a nightmare that will not end. Nothing about our situation has changed. We have done our part. We will never stop looking for her."

She added: "So I'm asking you, begging you, to do the right thing now. Make the right choice. Help us find her. Tell us where to look for her. I truly believe it is never too late to do the right thing. Help us bring this situation to an end."

Officers are continuing their investigation. Nancy's condition remains unknown.

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