Hannah Kobayashi, a 30-year-old woman from Hawaii, has been the focus of a missing persons investigation in Los Angeles. Authorities revealed that she was seen on surveillance footage crossing into Mexico on November 12, after missing a connecting flight from Los Angeles to New York. This development led police to classify her case as a “voluntary missing person.”
Kobayashi was reported missing by her family several weeks ago. She was supposed to fly from Hawaii to New York on November 8, 2024, for a new job and family visit. However, after missing her layover in Los Angeles, she informed her family that she planned to stay overnight at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The next day, she reached out to her family stating she wished to visit local attractions, including The Grove shopping mall.
Her family had last contact with her on November 11, when her phone pinged at LAX. She was seen speaking with an American Airlines agent but did not board any flight. That same day, her family received a concerning text from her that hinted at fears of identity theft after she mentioned being “intercepted” while boarding a Metro train. Following this unsettling communication, the family lost contact and subsequently reported her as missing on November 12.
Los Angeles police began their investigation and discovered surveillance footage indicating that Kobayashi had entered Mexico alone on November 12. Police Chief Jim McDonnell stated that there was no evidence to suggest she was a victim of a crime. In fact, they believed she may have intentionally missed her flight. Investigators found she had asked for her checked luggage to be sent back to LAX, indicating a planned departure from her flights.
Her family, deeply concerned for her safety, engaged with local volunteers and law enforcement. They established a public Facebook group, which attracted over 25,000 participants seeking information about her whereabouts.
Tragically, on November 24, Ryan Kobayashi, Hannah’s father, died by suicide near LAX after actively searching for his daughter for 13 days. The family expressed their heartbreak, stating that their suffering was compounded by his loss. Despite this tragedy, her family continues to advocate for her safety, and her case remains open until authorities can confirm her well-being.
In a brighter note, the widespread participation and concern from the public demonstrate the community’s commitment to searching for Hannah and highlights the importance of mental health support during such distressing times. It serves as a reminder that resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are available for individuals or families in crisis.
While the situation is undoubtedly challenging, there remains hope that Hannah may find peace and safety, as her family continues to publicize their search in hopes of receiving more information.