Federal agents are expanding the search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, involving Mexican authorities, and investigating a new ransom demand involving cryptocurrency. The FBI has reached out to Mexico’s federal and regional forces amid concerns that Guthrie may have been taken across the border. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that they do not believe Guthrie crossed the border and that this coordination is standard procedure.
Additionally, a new ransom email has been received by TMZ, requesting a similar amount to the previous $6 million demand but using a different cryptocurrency and account number. The email reportedly includes graphic descriptions of consequences if the ransom is not paid. The FBI has been informed about this development. Authorities warn that false ransom attempts could result in severe federal penalties.
Despite efforts, investigators have not found any leads from gun shops or retailers who may have sold the gun holster and clothing seen on a suspect in footage from Guthrie’s home. DNA testing on a glove found near Guthrie’s home did not yield any matches in the FBI database. However, advanced DNA testing and investigative genetic genealogy may take several weeks or months. Sheriff Nanos mentioned that DNA from the suspect may have been discovered in Guthrie’s home. The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to Guthrie’s whereabouts. In addition, 88-CRIME in Arizona is offering a reward of up to $102,500, primarily funded by an anonymous $100,000 donation.
