US President Donald Trump has expressed support for NBC News anchor Savannah Guthrie and her family after reports emerged that a ransom note linked to the disappearance of her mother, Nancy Guthrie, claimed that the 84-year-old had died.
Speaking to reporters after arriving in Pennsylvania for a speech, Trump said he hoped authorities would find Nancy Guthrie.
"I hope they find her," he told reporters after he landed in Pennsylvania for a speech, per a report by Fox News. "That family has gone through hell. I hope they find her."
Trump had earlier reached out to the Guthrie family after Nancy disappeared in February and reportedly offered federal assistance in the search.
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Ransom notes raise new concerns
Fresh details have emerged about two notes reportedly sent to the Guthrie family shortly after Nancy disappeared from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1.
According to reports cited by Hindustan Times, the first note claimed that Nancy was safe and demanded millions of dollars in Bitcoin in exchange for her release. The second note later stated that she had died and had been buried in nature.
The note reportedly mentioned that Nancy, who had a heart condition, died unintentionally and included an apology to the family.
Trump had previously warned that those responsible would face “very, very severe - the most severe” federal consequences if Nancy Guthrie was found dead, indicating that they could face the death penalty.
Savannah Guthrie speaks out
Savannah Guthrie became emotional during a live broadcast of the Today Show following the latest developments in the case.
“I don't have any comment on this story and I'm not involved in our coverage, but I can't pretend I'm not here,” she said.
“We are in agony and we cannot be at peace. No matter how much I try to come out here everyday and smile and find that joy and I will, I promise I will… this is the moment to tell you we need your help, we're begging for your help and I'm not going to miss that opportunity,” she added.
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Nearly five months after Nancy Guthrie disappeared, investigators have not announced any suspects or major breakthroughs in the case.
FAQs:
What did the ransom note claim about Nancy Guthrie?
The second note reportedly claimed that Nancy Guthrie had died and was buried in nature.
What did Donald Trump say about the case?
Trump said the Guthrie family had "gone through hell" and expressed hope that Nancy would be found.
