Tucson, Ariz. — The Pima County Sheriff's Department released two ransom notes on July 31, 2026, in an effort to identify the author. Authorities believe the notes were written by the same individual, as they exhibit a "unique linguistic style." While the authenticity of the notes has not been confirmed, Savannah Guthrie, daughter of the kidnapping victim, has expressed belief in their authenticity, and investigators have not dismissed them either.
The notes were sent on February 2 and February 6, and included specific references to the crime scene that were not publicly known at the time, such as details about Guthrie's Apple Watch and a damaged floodlight in her backyard. Jason Pack, a retired FBI negotiator, noted that the sender's knowledge of the watch suggests familiarity with the house, though not necessarily with Guthrie herself.
Pack described the language of the notes as indicative of a native English speaker, suggesting the writer is accustomed to formal communication. The sheriff's department has also acknowledged that Nest video footage may show the masked intruder on two separate occasions. They are seeking public assistance in identifying the individual, particularly from anyone who may have noticed behavioral changes in someone in the area following the release of the video on February 10.
The total rewards for information leading to an arrest in the case exceed $1.2 million, and this amount remains unclaimed as of July 31, 2026, marking nearly six months since Guthrie's kidnapping.