Hannah Kobayashi Breaks Silence on Her Disappearance to Mexico
Hannah Kobayashi has addressed her month-long absence since returning to the U.S. from Mexico on December 15. She shared her first statement after her case attracted national attention.
In her statement, Hannah confirmed that she re-entered the U.S. on December 15, prompting police to close her missing persons case, which had lasted nearly a month. "I was unaware of everything that was happening in the media while I was away," she relayed through her aunt, Larie Pidgeon, to NBC News. Hannah added, "I am still processing it all."
At 30 years old, Hannah shared the impact of her father's death by suicide while she was in Mexico, as confirmed by the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner. She discussed her focus moving forward, stating, "My focus now is on my healing, my peace and my creativity." Hannah expressed gratitude toward her family and supporters, appreciating their kindness during this period. She also requested privacy, asking for "respect for myself, my family, and my loved ones as I navigate through this challenging time."
Her disappearance was reported by her family on November 12, following a missed flight connection to New York City. Authorities began searching for her as a missing person after that date. The LAPD later categorized her as a "voluntary missing person" on December 2. They discovered footage indicating she entered Mexico on November 12, where she appeared "fine" and was "with nobody else," according to police reports.
Communication between Hannah and her sister, Sydni Kobayashi, and mother, Brandi Yee, resumed on December 11, with them expressing their relief and gratitude upon learning that she was "found safe" in Mexico. Five days later, on December 16, police announced to NBC News that "Hannah Kobayashi had presented herself on December 15, 2024, for entry into the U.S. and appeared in good health." As a result, her missing persons case has been officially closed.
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