Nancy Guthrie Update: Why experts say ransom note likely didn’t come from kidnappers; key clues revealed

Court TV reported that the panel convened investigators and legal analysts to review key developments in the case and questioned whether the notes fit a pattern common in kidnappings.

Ritter said legal kidnappers often prioritize direct communication with victims’ families and try to quickly establish credibility, but he said that was missing in this case.

“The last place you go is TMZ,” Ritter said during the panel, according to Court TV. “To me, this is someone seeking attention, not seeking ransom through legal kidnapping.”

Also read: Why Savannah Guthrie is becoming ‘increasingly frustrated’ with the pace of investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance

The panelists also noted the lack of proof-of-life indicators, which are often used in ransom situations to confirm that a victim is still alive.

This further raises questions about whether the messages were intended to pressure investigators or generate public attention, rather than facilitate actual ransom demands, according to the discussion.

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“Fox Nation” contributor Paul Morrow expressed concern about a hair recovered from Nancy Guthrie’s home, noting delays in the way the evidence was processed and moved for testing.

Court TV reports Mauro said Pima County Sheriff’s Office DNA testing was initially conducted through a laboratory in Florida, rather than sending the material directly to the FBI’s forensic facility in Quantico, Virginia.

Such delays create challenges in maintaining a clear chain of evidence, he said, adding that in cases of this nature such evidence should generally be sent directly to federal authorities.

Authorities have not publicly identified any suspects, and the investigation continues more than three months after Nancy Guthrie disappeared.