The message was brief and chilling, landing like a threat for a family already living in fear. Federal prosecutors say a California man has been charged after allegedly sending ransom-style texts to relatives of missing 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, whose disappearance in Tucson has drawn national attention.
According to court documents, Derrick Callella allegedly sent a text referencing bitcoin shortly after the family made a public plea for help, followed by a brief phone call minutes later. The messages were reported immediately and traced to his California residence. Investigators say Callella admitted he had followed the case on television and sent the message simply to see if the family would respond.
Prosecutors stress the messages were not connected to a separate ransom note sent to a news outlet, but say the impact on the family was severe. Authorities continue to search for Nancy, emphasizing they have no reason to believe she is deceased. The investigation remains active as the family continues its public plea for answers.
