Federal and local authorities are investigating a disturbing crypto invasion plot after two California teens were charged in a violent $66 million cryptocurrency home invasion in Scottsdale, Arizona—the same night Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her Tucson home, roughly two hours away. Officials have not confirmed any connection between the cases, but overlapping details have drawn heightened scrutiny.
The two suspects, both under 18, were arrested for a Jan. 31 home invasion in Scottsdale after allegedly posing as delivery drivers to gain access to a residence. According to court documents, the teens forced their way inside, duct-taped and assaulted two homeowners, and demanded cryptocurrency. One victim denied having any digital assets, while an adult son inside the home contacted police from another room. Officers arrived as the suspects fled, and both were later arrested.
Authorities said the teens had recently met and were allegedly extorted by individuals identified only as “Red” and “8.” Court records state the teens were sent from California with $1,000 to purchase disguises, restraints, and burglary tools. Investigators said the suspects possessed a 3D-printed gun with no ammunition; its functionality remains under review.
One suspect’s mother contacted California law enforcement after discovering messages on her son’s phone discussing a burglary while dressed in a delivery uniform. The messages included a Scottsdale address. California authorities notified Scottsdale police, but the alert came after the crime had already occurred. The teens face multiple felony charges, including burglary, aggravated assault, and kidnapping.
The same evening, Nancy Guthrie, 84, the mother of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, vanished from her Tucson home. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said Guthrie was last seen around 9:30 p.m. Jan. 31. Investigators believe she was kidnapped or abducted, and blood was later found on her porch.
TMZ reported receiving a ransom note demanding millions in cryptocurrency, including what it described as “an element of ‘or else.’” The FBI confirmed the first deadline was 5 p.m. Thursday, with a second deadline set for Monday. The Guthrie family released a public video pleading for communication and her safe return.
Separately, Derrick Callella, 42, of Hawthorne, California, was charged with transmitting a ransom demand related to a kidnapped person. Court documents allege a Tucson TV station received a bitcoin demand, followed by texts sent to family members after their public plea. Authorities said the messages were traced to Callella’s residence, and he allegedly admitted sending them.
Investigators continue to pursue all leads as the search for Guthrie remains ongoing.
