Ransom Notes Released in Kidnapping and Death of Savannah Guthrie's Mother

Two ransom notes connected to the disappearance and death of Nancy Guthrie, mother of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, were released publicly on Friday by the Pima County Sheriff's Department and the FBI Phoenix Field Office. Investigators hope the release will generate new leads in a case that has gone unsolved since February.

Nancy Guthrie, 84, went missing from her home near Tucson on February 1. The FBI has been investigating the disappearance as a kidnapping for ransom.

The first note was sent one day after she vanished. Addressed to Savannah Guthrie, it claimed the writer had her mother, that she was safe but scared, and that she would not be released until a payment of $4 million in bitcoin was received. According to the full text released by authorities, the note said she would be held for a maximum of seven days.

The second note was sent February 6 to Tucson news outlet KOLD. It stated that Guthrie had died shortly after being taken. "We did not fully grasp the seriousness of her physical condition," the note reads. "We never intended to hurt her, that was not our intention. 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."

Investigators believe that someone who knows the person who wrote the notes may have information relevant to the case. That could include a friend, family member, co-worker, classmate or acquaintance. Authorities say some individuals may have stayed silent because of personal relationships or concerns about safety, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Anyone with information can contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or 1-800-225-5324. The Guthrie family is offering a $1 million reward for the return of their mother.