Thirty-one-year-old Hannah Kobayashi vanished after missing her connecting flight from Los Angeles to New York on November 8th. Her family, rallying in Los Angeles, has been tirelessly retracing her steps, determined to bring her home. Despite police reports indicating Kobayashi willingly crossed the border into Mexico, her family remains deeply concerned and committed to finding her.

Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell stated that surveillance footage and evidence confirm Kobayashi entered Mexico on foot through the San Ysidro port of entry on November 12th. She was alone, carrying luggage, and appeared to be acting of her own volition. However, Kobayashi's aunt, Larie Pidgeon, acting as the family spokesperson, expressed unwavering worry. She emphasized that a trip to Mexico was completely unexpected, unknown to anyone in Kobayashi's life, and entirely out of character.

Pidgeon shared her struggle to understand a series of cryptic messages Kobayashi sent to friends and family after missing her flight. The messages spoke of being tricked financially, spiritual awakenings, and concerns about the “matrix.” These messages, coupled with Kobayashi’s complete digital disconnect, heighten the family’s anxieties.

While police have found no evidence of foul play or trafficking, they have publicly urged Kobayashi to contact her family, law enforcement, or the U.S. Embassy to confirm her safety. McDonnell acknowledged Kobayashi’s right to privacy while underscoring her loved ones’ deep concern.

Kobayashi's intended trip to New York involved a connecting flight with a short layover. Despite having a detailed itinerary and a booked hotel room, she never boarded her flight. Footage obtained from L.A. Union Station shows Kobayashi purchasing a bus ticket to the southern border on November 11th. This action, according to police, further supports the theory that she intentionally missed her flight, a claim her family disputes.

The family's search continues despite the LAPD considering the case closed. Pidgeon has stated they are developing a safe and effective plan to contact Kobayashi in Mexico. They are determined to confirm her well-being firsthand and ensure she is making these decisions willingly. The family has enlisted the help of a private investigator and is pleading for anyone with information to contact the RAD Movement hotline.

Adding to the tragedy, Kobayashi's father, Ryan Kobayashi, tragically took his own life on November 24th, a loss Pidgeon attributed to a broken heart. The family expressed frustration over the LAPD's communication, stating they weren't informed of key developments until hours before the public announcement. They also noted a delay in initial contact from the LAPD after reporting Kobayashi missing.