We have some reassuring news about Hannah Kobayashi, who has finally been found more than a month after her sudden disappearance. Many have been worried about her since she missed her flight from Los Angeles to New York last month.
Tragically, her father, Ryan Kobayashi, traveled to Los Angeles to assist in the search efforts but sadly died by suicide during this challenging time. The family recently released a statement; however, it leaves many questions unanswered about Hannah’s whereabouts over the past weeks.

Before she went missing, there were concerns that Hannah might have fallen victim to a green card marriage scam. In early December, sources disclosed to LA Mag that she was potentially scammed out of funds through such a scheme.
According to reports, Hannah and her partner traveled to LA with her supposed legal husband and his partner. It was her mother who discovered documents referring to legal representation for this ‘alleged marriage’.
The family’s lawyer, Sara Azari, mentioned that they were still gathering facts, stating, “This is just one avenue we’re exploring seriously as we collaborate tightly with our attorney and investigators.”
The LAPD offered some insights during a recent news conference. Chief Jim McDonnell stated, “Video footage from U.S. Customs confirms Kobayashi crossed the border from the United States into Mexico. Importantly, she appeared alone, with her luggage, and looked unharmed.”
Chief McDonnell reassured everyone that the primary aim is to ensure Hannah’s safety, urging her to reach out to her family or authorities. He emphasized the importance of a message that could bring relief to her concerned loved ones.
There was a mention that Hannah had expressed a desire to disconnect from digital devices entirely, squashing rumors of trafficking or foul play as baseless.
Family members received strange messages from her phone after she disappeared, worrying them deeply. The messages claimed experiences of “getting hacked” and feeling stripped of her identity, as well as financial troubles involving someone she thought she loved.
Hannah’s aunt, Larie Pidgeon, shared her relief knowing her niece is alive, having been spotted crossing into Mexico. However, she believes there is more to uncover to ensure Hannah is truly safe. She noted that Hannah’s abrupt disconnect from her phone and social media accounts is concerning. “This is not who she usually is,” Larie pointed out.
The family remains determined not to cease their efforts until they conclusively know that Hannah is safe, mentally well, and acting independently. The messages she sent remain troubling, prompting her family to continue their search.
Additional messages sent to friends and family detail how she claimed not to make it to New York City, with worries of dwindling funds after meeting someone online who affected her situation negatively.
The LAPD explained more about Hannah’s movements in recent weeks, noting her travel plans. The Missing Persons Unit reported tracking her scheduled flight to Los Angeles from Maui, which she boarded on November 8th.
Surveillance footage corroborated her presence in various Los Angeles locations between November 8th and 11th. Curiously, although she checked luggage to New York, she retrieved her suitcase from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on November 11th.
She subsequently left LAX with her belongings, purchasing a ticket at Union Station for a bus headed near the Mexico border. Hannah crossed into Mexico on November 12th.
Police confirm that there will be no active investigation while Hannah remains in Mexico. “But, should she come back to the U.S., authorities will be immediately informed,” they clarified.