The story of 30-year-old Hannah Kobayashi has taken an unexpected turn.
The Hawaii native, who was reported missing after failing to board a connecting flight in Los Angeles and sending “alarming” messages to her family, has been classified as a “voluntary missing person,” according to Los Angeles police.
Hannah’s Border Crossing
On December 2, Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell confirmed that video surveillance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection showed Kobayashi crossing the U.S.-Mexico border on foot at the San Ysidro point of entry tunnel.
The footage, captured on November 12, showed Hannah alone with her luggage, appearing unharmed.
“There is no evidence she’s a victim of trafficking or foul play,” McDonnell explained, adding that the investigation in Mexico will not continue.
“We urge Hannah to contact her family, law enforcement, or the U.S. Embassy to let us know she’s safe.”
A Desire to Disconnect
Authorities uncovered signs that Kobayashi expressed a wish to disconnect from modern life before leaving Maui in early November.
Her social media posts hinted at these sentiments, though nothing suggested her sudden departure.
Douglas Oldfield, another LAPD official, noted that while the texts Hannah sent her family and friends seemed “off,” investigators cannot interpret their meaning without hearing directly from her.
The Alarming Messages
In text messages to her family, Kobayashi shared that she felt “scared” and believed someone was trying to steal her money and identity.
Her last phone ping was recorded on November 11 at LAX before all communication ceased.
Hannah’s aunt, Lori Pidgeon, revealed on social media that the family grew increasingly worried after receiving her final message, describing it as “gravely concerning.”
Her sister, Sydni, also reported receiving cryptic texts, including one in which Kobayashi claimed to have been “tricked” out of her savings by someone she trusted.
A Tragic Loss
The search for Hannah was marked by another devastating blow.
Her father, Ryan Kobayashi, traveled to Los Angeles to look for his daughter but was found dead in a parking lot on November 24.
His death was ruled a suicide caused by blunt force injuries.
“He died of a broken heart,” Pidgeon said. “He wanted to do everything he could to bring Hannah home.”
A Plea for Closure
While Hannah Kobayashi has the right to her privacy, her family and authorities continue to hope for a simple message confirming her safety.
“A single message could ease the pain of those who care about her,” McDonnell said.
The search for answers remains ongoing, but for now, Kobayashi’s decision to step away has left her family and friends grappling with heartbreak and uncertainty.
Frens, let me know your thoughts on Hannah’s “disappearance” in the comments below.
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