Ryan Kobayashi, the father of missing woman Hannah Kobayashi, tragically took his own life on Sunday in Los Angeles, as confirmed by the LAPD. Ryan had traveled from Hawaii to California to assist in the search for his daughter, who vanished on November 8. The family has expressed growing concern for Hannah’s safety, particularly after receiving unsettling text messages from her phone that did not sound like her.
Ryan, aged 58, was discovered at a parking structure near Los Angeles International Airport. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation, and the case has been classified as “open” by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. A statement from the Kobayashi family described this heartbreaking incident as compounding their already immense grief as they have been searching for Hannah for nearly two weeks.
Hannah was reported missing by her family on November 12, following her failure to make a connecting flight from Maui to New York City. Surveillance footage captured her leaving the airport on the day she went missing, dressed in a black hoodie and tie-dye leggings, and subsequently spotted at The Grove in Los Angeles on November 9 and 10. The last known action of Hannah was her attempt to rebook her flight at LAX on November 11.
Family members also conveyed concerns regarding “strange” text messages purportedly from Hannah’s phone. They fear that she may be in extreme danger, possibly even becoming a victim of sex trafficking. This alarming situation remains a source of deep concern for her family.
Hannah Kobayashi is described as 5’10”, weighing about 140 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. She has a distinctive knife tattoo on her forearm. If anyone has information regarding her whereabouts, they are urged to contact the LAPD or Crime Stoppers.
In a moment of tragedy for the Kobayashi family, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health resources. For those struggling with distress, reaching out for help from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is encouraged.
Ultimately, while this story is an example of profound grief and loss, it also highlights the necessity of community support and vigilance in situations involving missing persons. The search for Hannah continues, reiterating the hope that she may still be found safe and brought home.