Nancy Guthrie: Arrest made in ‘imposter ransom demand,’ FBI says

TUCSON, Ariz. – Authorities say an arrest has been made in connection to an “imposter ransom demand” in the disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of NBC “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie.

An FBI official announced the arrest during a news conference on Feb. 5.

The backstory:

Nancy was last seen on the night of Jan. 31 after being dropped off at her Catalina Foothills home near East Skyline Drive and North Campbell Avenue. She was reported missing the next day after her family was notified that she hadn’t shown up for church.

Authorities say Guthrie is without her necessary medication. She’s described as being 5 feet 5 inches tall and 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. It’s unknown what she was wearing when she disappeared.

Alleged ransom notes

Dig deeper:

Authorities believe Nancy was taken from her home against her will. TMZ and KOLD 13 News in Tucson reported that they received ransom notes.

An email sent to KOLD reportedly included a deadline and a demand for a specific amount of money for Guthrie’s safe return. The station turned the email over to the PCSD, which is working with the FBI to determine the note’s credibility.

“We are aware of reports circulating about possible ransom note(s) related to the investigation into Nancy Guthrie. All tips and leads are being taken seriously and are forwarded directly to our detectives, who are coordinating with the FBI. We encourage anyone with information or tips to submit them,” the sheriff’s office said.

The suspect has been identified in court documents as Derrick Callella.

What they’re saying:

Along with her siblings, Savannah released an emotional video plea on Wednesday night, calling for the safe return of their mother. 

“We too have heard the reports about a ransom letter in the media,” Savannah said. “As a family, we are doing everything that we can. We are ready to talk. However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated. We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her.”

Savannah Guthrie and mother Nancy Guthrie on Thursday, June 15, 2023. (Photo by: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)

What you can do:

A tipline was created for the community to submit information regarding this case – including photos and videos.

Map of area where Guthrie was last seen