Photo Credit: Getty Images
This is the first time Hannah Kobayashi has spoken out since she vanished. In a statement, the Hawaii native revealed that she had crossed the border from Mexico back into the United States early on December 15, leading police to end the month-long, nationally publicized missing persons case.
In a statement to NBC News via her aunt Larie Pidgeon, she said, "I am still processing everything that was happening in the media while I was away."
The 30-year-old also talked about what she plans to do once she gets back home. According to the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner, her father, Ryan Kobayashi, committed suicide while she was in Mexico.
Hannah stated, "I'm concentrating on my creativity, healing, and peace right now." "My family and everyone who has been kind and compassionate to me during this time have my sincere gratitude."
"As I navigate through this difficult time, I kindly ask for respect for myself, my family, and my loved ones," she continued. I appreciate your understanding.
Authorities searched for Hannah after her family reported her missing on November 12 after last hearing from her on November 11 after she missed a flight connection to New York City.
After finding video footage of her entering Mexico on November 12th, where she “appeared fine” and “was with nobody else,” the LAPD later designated her a “voluntary missing person” on December 2.
Hannah was eventually contacted by her mother, Brandi Yee, and sister, Sydni Kobayashi, who wrote on December 11 that they were "extremely grateful and relieved" that she had been "found safe" in Mexico.
Five days later, on December 16, police told NBC News that their missing persons case was now closed and that "Hannah Kobayashi had presented herself on December 15, 2024, for entry into the US and appeared in good health."
