The investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of "Today" show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has taken a grim turn following reports that a second ransom note claimed she had died .

Authorities are now working to authenticate the disturbing message, which was sent days after the first ransom demand . The note reportedly offered no apology and made no request for payment for the return of her body .

Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her Arizona home on January 31 after being dropped off by relatives . Concern escalated when she failed to attend a scheduled virtual church service the following morning, prompting her family to report her missing .

According to multiple sources familiar with the investigation, the first ransom note was sent on February 2 and demanded millions of dollars in Bitcoin for Guthrie's safe release . That initial message was reportedly addressed to Savannah Guthrie and contained specific details about Nancy's home, including information about her bedroom and the property's surroundings .

A second message, sent on February 6, allegedly claimed the 84-year-old had died . Unlike the first note, it reportedly did not ask for any payment .

Investigators believe both messages were likely sent by the same person or group responsible for Guthrie's abduction . While the notes originated from different IP addresses, the sender reportedly used similar secure servers to conceal their location in both instances .

The Pima County Sheriff's Department and the FBI are actively investigating the second message to determine its authenticity . Authorities have declined to release the full contents of either note, citing the need to protect the integrity of the case and respect the family's privacy .

Following the receipt of the second message, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings issued an emotional public appeal . In a video statement, Savannah addressed the kidnappers directly, saying, "We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay" .

The sheriff's department has stated the investigation "remains active and ongoing" . Law enforcement officials continue to work closely with the FBI, following up on leads and reviewing information as they pursue answers in this complex case .

The case has garnered widespread attention due to its connection to the prominent NBC anchor, as well as the unsettling details surrounding the abduction and subsequent ransom communications.