Hannah Kobayashi has been found safe after disappearing from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) last month.
The 31-year-old Hawaii woman's family confirmed the news in a statement shared with DailyMail.com on Wednesday (December 11), expressing relief and gratitude while requesting privacy during this challenging time.
“We are incredibly relieved and grateful that Hannah has been found safe,” the family’s statement read. “This past month has been an unimaginable ordeal for our family, and we kindly ask for privacy as we take the time to heal and process everything we have been through.
“We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us during this difficult time. Your kindness and concern have meant the world to us.”
Mysterious Disappearance at LAX
Kobayashi vanished on November 8 while traveling from Hawaii to New York City for a “bucket list” trip.
Shortly after her disappearance, investigators determined that she had voluntarily left the airport, purchasing a bus ticket to the U.S.-Mexico border. Surveillance footage later showed her crossing into Tijuana on foot between November 12 and 13.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced earlier this month that Kobayashi had “knowingly departed” and was “voluntarily missing".
However, her family publicly disputed this, maintaining they were unaware of her whereabouts and concerned for her safety. The family said they had not seen the surveillance footage until December 2.
The search for Kobayashi became increasingly fraught and more high profile in the press, with her father, 58-year-old Ryan Kobayashi, flying to Los Angeles to assist.
On November 24, Mr Kobayashi was found dead at a car park near Los Angeles International Airport. The following day, authorities revealed that he had intentionally killed himself.
Despite law enforcement’s findings, the family remained steadfast in their efforts, urging the public and authorities to continue the search.
Speculation and Controversy
The case drew widespread attention, with scrutiny intensifying after it was revealed that the family had raised money to fund the search even after police determined Kobayashi was not missing. In response to backlash, the family reiterated their belief that her disappearance was uncharacteristic and expressed gratitude for law enforcement’s efforts.
“We are deeply grateful for the urgency and dedication law enforcement has shown in investigating Hannah's disappearance,” the family said in a statement shared online by NewsNation correspondent Brian Entin.
“Our family remains hopeful that Hannah is safe and urges everyone to continue the search. We want answers and a resolution that ensures Hannah's safety and urge law enforcement and the public to stay focused on finding her and to avoid speculative conclusions.”
Reports of Green Card Marriage Scam
As the investigation unfolded, reports emerged linking Kobayashi’s disappearance to a possible green card marriage scam. Sources told LA Magazine that Kobayashi may have been scammed out of proceeds related to the scheme. Documents related to her marriage, allegedly discovered by her mother, were reportedly handed over to law enforcement.
According to LA Magazine, Kobayashi and her then-partner arrived at LAX on November 8 with plans to board a connecting flight. Her legal husband and his partner were reportedly traveling with them, raising further questions about her situation.
Per the Metro, Hannah reportedly sent one of her loved ones a message that read: "I got tricked pretty much into giving away all my funds for someone I thought I loved."
However, Los Angeles police Chief Jim McDonnell said earlier this month that there was no evidence that Kobayashi was a victim of human trafficking or another crime.
"We have basically done everything we can do at this point. She has left the country and in another nation now," he said and urged a "simple message" from her, saying: "My ask would be to anybody considering doing this, think about the people you’re leaving behind, your loved ones who are going to be worried sick about you."
Despite the circulating conspiracies regarding Hannah's whereabouts, her family remained resolute, urging the public to avoid speculation and focus on verified information about the case.
“Spreading awareness and sharing verified information about her case is crucial, and we deeply appreciate your continued support in these efforts,” they stated.
While the full details of Kobayashi’s disappearance remain unclear, her safe return has brought relief to her family and those who followed the case closely.