Authorities in Arizona have released two ransom notes related to the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie earlier this year. The release aims to generate new leads in the case.

The second note, sent on February 6 to a Tucson news outlet, claims that Guthrie, aged 84, passed away soon after her abduction. The note suggests the cause was heart-related and states, “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.”

Guthrie, the mother of ‘TODAY’ co-host Savannah Guthrie, disappeared from her home near Tucson on February 1. The FBI is investigating the case as a kidnapping for ransom.

The first note, sent four days earlier to a CBS affiliate, mentioned that a white smartwatch was found at the foot of Guthrie’s bed and that a floodlight in her backyard was destroyed. This note demanded a $4 million bitcoin payment by February 5, threatening to raise the ransom to $6 million if unpaid. It warned, “Her life is in your hands. Do not play games, law enforcement will not be able to help you.”

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department released the notes to explore new leads, noting their “unique linguistic style,” distinctive in word choice, syntax, and phraseology. These traits might be recognizable to someone familiar with the writer, potentially leading to their identification.

The release follows an emotional plea by Savannah Guthrie, urging the kidnapper to reveal her mother’s whereabouts. In a social media video, she expressed her family’s agony and called for action, stating, “Help us find her. Tell us where to look for her. I truly believe it is never too late to do the right thing.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). The Guthrie family is offering a $1 million reward for information leading to her mother’s return.

This is a developing story, and updates will follow.