Hannah Kobayashi, 30, who was previously reported missing after choosing to “step away from modern connectivity,” has been found safe, according to her family and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Her disappearance had sparked widespread concern, especially after her father, Ryan, tragically took his own life while searching for her.
The Maui-based photographer flew from Hawaii to Los Angeles in early November, planning to connect to a New York flight on November 8, but she missed her connection. Days later, she vanished after sending “alarming” messages to her family.
On November 11, the family reported her missing. Police revealed video footage showing Kobayashi crossing into Mexico on November 12, approximately 125 miles southeast of Los Angeles.
Her father, Ryan, immediately traveled to Los Angeles to lead search efforts alongside family and volunteers. However, in late November, he was found deceased in a parking lot near Los Angeles International Airport, an apparent suicide, leaving the family and the community devastated.
On Wednesday evening, the family released a statement confirming Hannah had been located. "We are incredibly relieved and grateful that Hannah has been found safe," read the statement, signed by her mother, Brandi Yee, and sister, Sydni Kobayashi. "This past month has been an unimaginable ordeal for our family, and we kindly ask for privacy as we take the time to heal and process everything we have been through."
They also expressed gratitude for the support received during the search: "Your kindness and concern have meant the world to us."
The LAPD echoed the sentiment, stating they were "happy to learn that Ms. Kobayashi has been found." They added, "With this new information, this case has become a private matter, and we will wrap up our investigation.