Hannah Kobayashi has broken her silence after mysteriously disappearing and returning to the United States from Mexico.
The 31-year-old aspiring photographer emerged from her unexplained absence, crossing the California border on Dec. 15 and addressing her sudden disappearance for the first time.
She shockingly revealed to reporters that she was “unaware of everything.”
Kobayashi was initially reported missing after walking out of Los Angeles International Airport on Nov. 8 while en route to New York.
Her disappearance took a tragic turn when her father, Ryan Kobayashi, died by suicide during the search, jumping from a parking structure near LAX on Nov. 24.
US officials at the border questioned Kobayashi and confirmed she appeared to be in good health.
Kobayashi emphasized her focus on healing, peace, and creativity in a statement, expressing gratitude for the support she received during this challenging time.
“I was unaware of everything that was happening in the media while I was away, and I am still processing,” Kobayashi added, per Daily Mail.
“I kindly ask for respect for myself, my family and my loves ones as I navigate through this challenging time,” she continued.
“Thank you for your understanding.”
Lt. Doug Oldfield from the Los Angeles Police Department’s missing persons unit officially closed the case, noting that she did not appear to be under any distress when speaking with Customs and Border Protection.
The circumstances surrounding her disappearance involve a complex web of relationships and potential immigration schemes.
Daily Mail highlighted that Kobayashi was traveling with her alleged Green Card husband, Alan Cacace, an Argentina native, and her ex-boyfriend Amun Miranda.
Sources revealed that Cacace had reportedly paid Kobayashi $15,000 for a marriage of convenience to help with his immigration status.
Her coworkers from Up ‘N Smoke in Maui provided insights into the trip’s background, noting Kobayashi had mixed feelings about the journey.
They mentioned tensions within the group, including conflicts with Miranda and Cacace’s girlfriend Marianne.
Miranda speculated about Kobayashi’s potential mental state, suggesting she might have been experiencing a breakdown potentially related to drug use.
Sources in her hometown indicated Kobayashi was known to use psychedelics, cocaine and nitrous oxide.
After her disappearance, a donation page raised over $47,000 for the search.
Following her return, the family has committed to honoring refund requests for donors.
Kobayashi’s sister Sydni and mother Brandi released a statement expressing relief and gratitude, requesting privacy as they process the ordeal.
The LAPD confirmed Kobayashi’s voluntary border crossing into Mexico, resolving the mystery that had captivated public attention for weeks.
