Hannah Kobayashi, the woman who was reported missing last month, has been spotted crossing the U.S. border into Mexico, according to recent updates from authorities. After her disappearance sparked widespread concern, new information has emerged regarding her whereabouts.
Here is what officials had to say about the latest update on Hannah Kobayashi’s case.
Hannah Kobayashi spotted crossing into Mexico, claims report
Hannah Kobayashi, a 30-year-old woman from Hawaii who was reported missing last month in Los Angeles, has been spotted crossing into Mexico, according to an update from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). US immigration officials obtained video footage showing Kobayashi safely walking across the southern US border into Mexico after missing her connecting flight to New York. The incident occurred shortly after she arrived in Los Angeles from Hawaii. (via BBC)
LAPD officials confirmed that no foul play is suspected, and they described Kobayashi as a “voluntarily missing person.” They also stated that there is no evidence of trafficking or criminal activity. Authorities noted that Kobayashi had expressed a desire to disconnect from modern connectivity before leaving Maui. The update came after her family expressed concerns regarding cryptic messages she had sent about her money and identity being stolen, which initially sparked a massive search effort.
Kobayashi’s family has disputed some of the details in the LAPD’s statement, particularly regarding her missing the flight intentionally, and remains concerned for her safety. Her sister, Sydni Kobayashi, said the family felt excluded from some key details of the investigation. However, she remains hopeful that the LAPD is doing everything in its power to locate Hannah. (via LA Times)
Tragically, on November 24, Hannah Kobayashi’s father, Ryan Kobayashi, was found dead near Los Angeles International Airport. He had traveled to California to help with the search for his daughter. Authorities reported that he died from multiple blunt-force traumatic injuries. This development has added to the family’s distress as they struggle with Hannah’s disappearance.