Nancy Guthrie Kidnapping Case: Abductor Demands $6 Million in Bitcoin as Son-in-Law Tommasco Cioni Faces Scrutiny

Savannah Guthrie’s mother, Nancy Guthrie, has been missing since January 31, 2026, after she was last seen at her residence. Concern has intensified as Nancy suffers from a fragile heart condition and requires regular medication. A formal missing persons report was filed on February 1, prompting a large-scale search operation involving more than 100 personnel, including the FBI.

As investigators continue their efforts to locate Nancy, attention has increasingly turned toward her son-in-law, Tommasco Cioni. Authorities have confirmed that both Tommasco and his wife, Annie, are being questioned as part of routine investigative procedures. The case took a serious turn after two ransom messages surfaced, demanding money in exchange for Nancy’s safe return.

Ransom Demand and Investigation Details

In a video message, Nancy Guthrie’s children—Savannah, Annie, and Camron Guthrie—stated they were willing to meet the ransom demand, provided they received proof that their mother was alive and in the custody of the sender. The family emphasized the need for verification due to the ease with which images and videos can now be digitally manipulated.

The first ransom note was reportedly sent to TMZ, leading to the arrest of a man in Southern California. However, a subsequent encrypted message received by News13 outlined a fresh demand. According to reports, the alleged abductor is seeking USD 6 million in Bitcoin, with a deadline set for February 9, 2026, at 5 PM (ET).

Investigators believe the sender possesses advanced technical expertise, having used encrypted email services and a VPN. The choice of cryptocurrency further complicates tracking efforts. An FBI special agent, Tracy Walder, noted that the limited communication—only two messages so far—suggests a carefully planned operation.

Why Tommasco Cioni Is Under Attention

Former journalist Ashleigh Banfield revealed that sources claimed Tommasco Cioni “may be” a person of interest, primarily because he was reportedly the last individual to see Nancy Guthrie and was among those who received a ransom note. However, Banfield also clarified that such scrutiny is standard in missing person cases and does not imply guilt.

Authorities continue to search locations linked to Tommasco as part of ongoing inquiries, while stressing that the investigation remains active and open-ended as efforts to locate Nancy Guthrie continue.