Hawaii Woman Last Seen Crossing into Mexico, Sparking Family Concern
Hannah Kobayashi, 30, vanished from Los Angeles last month, leaving behind cryptic messages and a trail of unanswered questions. Initial fears of foul play have been tempered by authorities, who now believe she intentionally crossed the US border into Mexico.
Kobayashi, who flew to Los Angeles from Hawaii on November 8th, was last seen on video footage obtained by US immigration officials. The footage shows her crossing the border on foot shortly after missing her connecting flight to New York.
“She is also not a suspect in any criminal activity," LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell stated in a recent press conference.
The LAPD has labeled Kobayashi a “voluntarily missing person” and insists there’s no evidence of trafficking or harm. Chief McDonnell explained, “The investigation has not uncovered any evidence that Kobayashi is being trafficked or is the victim of foul play.”
He added, "We’ve basically done everything we can do at this point. She’s left the country and in another nation now".
Kobayashi’s family, however, remains unconvinced. They dispute the police’s assertion that she deliberately missed her flight and continue to express concern for her well-being.
“The lack of communication surrounding some important details has left us feeling excluded from potentially crucial developments,” Kobayashi’s sister, Sydni Kobayashi, said in a statement to the Los Angeles Times.
“However, we do remain hopeful and optimistic that the Los Angeles Police Department is doing everything in their power to assist us in locating Hannah.”
Adding to the tragedy, Kobayashi’s father, Ryan Kobayashi, 58, who had traveled to California to help in the search, was tragically found deceased near the Los Angeles airport on November 24th.
The Los Angeles coroner’s office confirmed Ryan Kobayashi died from multiple blunt force traumatic injuries.
This unsettling case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities associated with missing persons cases, especially when they involve international borders. As the investigation continues, both authorities and Kobayashi’s family hope for answers and a safe return.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised you can visit the BBC’s Action Line pages, or contact Samaritans in the UK.
If you’re in the US, call 988, or contact Lifeline..
