Hannah Kobayashi, a 30-year-old woman from Hawaii, has been located safe over a month after her disappearance, an update that has brought a wave of relief to her loved ones. Her family, speaking through an attorney, expressed their gratitude, stating, “We are incredibly relieved and grateful that Hannah has been found safe.” They also requested privacy as they begin to heal from the distressing experiences of the past month.
Details surrounding the circumstances of her recovery remain sparse, including the specifics of where or when she was found. However, the family confirmed that Kobayashi has been in contact with them.
Kobayashi’s journey began on November 8, when she flew from Maui to Los Angeles, intending to connect to New York City to visit her aunt. She missed her connecting flight, which authorities later discovered was intentional. As days progressed, her family received concerning texts and noted unusual financial activities, which prompted a widespread search effort for her.
The Los Angeles Police Department classified her case as a voluntary missing person incident after verifying that she crossed the U.S.-Mexico border on November 12. During the investigation, there were unsettling hints that suggested she might have been involved in a marriage scam, particularly after receiving alarming texts indicating she had lost her funds in what she described as a manipulative relationship.
Currently, there are no plans for the LAPD to hold additional press conferences, and the Kobayashi family has opted not to share further information regarding the case.
This resolution, while not without its challenges, serves as a reminder that outcomes can improve and that support systems play a crucial role in helping individuals through difficult times. The community’s engagement in the search for Kobayashi exemplifies the profound care and determination that can arise in times of uncertainty.