Hannah Kobayashi, the 30-year-old photographer who was the subject of a nationwide search, has spoken out for the first time after returning to the U.S. from Mexico.
Her disappearance made headlines, compounded by the tragic suicide of her father, Ryan Kobayashi, during his search efforts.
On December 15, Hannah crossed the border back into the United States, reportedly in good health and not under duress.
In her first statement, she said, “At daybreak on December 15, I crossed the border back into the U.S. My focus is on my healing, peace, and creativity.”
Her safe return was confirmed by her family through a representative. According to TMZ, Hannah was questioned by U.S. officials to verify her well-being before meeting with the family’s attorney and re-entering the country.
Hannah’s disappearance began on November 8 when she flew from Maui to Los Angeles but missed her connecting flight to New York City. After receiving strange messages, her family reported her missing.
Her father, Ryan Kobayashi, spent nearly two weeks searching for her in Los Angeles before taking his own life in a parking lot near the airport on November 24. His death was ruled a suicide.
The case took another twist when Los Angeles police found CCTV footage of Hannah crossing into Mexico. She was later classified as a voluntary missing person.
Hannah’s sister, Sydni Kobayashi, shared the family’s mixed emotions in a Facebook post, stating, “At this time, my mother and I have not physically seen Hannah.
We have only spoken to her over the phone, and she does not want to return to us. We are relieved that she is alive, but we feel overwhelmed with exhaustion, devastation, and betrayal.
The family has since shut down donations and offered refunds from the GoFundMe campaign that raised nearly $50,000 for the search and their father’s funeral expenses.
The Los Angeles Police Department has closed its investigation, stating the situation is now a “private matter.” Further information about Hannah’s disappearance may only come from her or her family’s legal representatives.
This case, marked by unanswered questions and deep family tragedy, continues to draw public attention as Hannah Kobayashi focuses on rebuilding her life.
