Federal investigators have concluded that three ransom demands linked to the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie, were fabricated.
The FBI determined the messages were fake after they were initially delivered to media outlets, including TMZ, before being turned over to authorities for review.
The finding removes a layer of speculation surrounding the high-profile case, which has drawn significant public attention since the co-host's mother went missing.
By ruling out the authenticity of the notes, investigators have effectively closed off one line of inquiry regarding the motive and status of the disappearance.
The determination comes as the search for Nancy Guthrie continues.
Authorities have not released new details on the location of the missing woman or identified any suspects in connection with the fabricated notes.