Hannah Kobayashi Believed to be in Mexico, Authorities Say
Law enforcement sources close to the case told The Times on Monday afternoon that investigators believe the missing Hawaii woman is now in Mexico and there is no evidence of foul play.
Background of the Case
Kobayashi went missing on November 8 after catching a flight from Hawaii to Los Angeles, with a connecting flight that would ultimately take her to New York, where she planned to visit relatives. Her family became worried after she landed at LAX and sent them cryptic text messages, suggesting that someone was trying to steal her money and identity.
LAPD Chief’s Statement
Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief Jim McDonnell stated that Kobayashi “intentionally” missed her connecting flight at Los Angeles International Airport. However, her family strongly disputed this statement.
New Developments
According to law enforcement sources, Kobayashi is now believed to be in Mexico. The news follows the LAPD Chief’s statement that Kobayashi “intentionally” missed her connecting flight. Kobayashi’s family did not immediately respond to a request for comment on her being in Mexico.
Family’s Dispute
Kobayashi’s sister, Sydni, responded to the statement in a social media post, disputing the development in the case and pointing out that McDonnell incorrectly gave Kobayashi’s age, which is actually 30 years old. Kobayashi’s family also said McDonnell gave an incorrect timeline of Kobayashi’s disappearance.
Last Seen
According to Kobayashi’s family, she landed at LAX on November 8 and missed her connecting flight to New York City because of a short layover. Kobayashi stayed overnight in Los Angeles and was seen the next day at the Taschen bookstore at the Grove, an open-air shopping mall in the Fairfax District. On November 10, Kobayashi was captured on video outside of a Nike event near the Grove and was believed to have returned to LAX. On November 11, Kobayashi was seen talking to a ticketing agent at LAX and boarded the LAX Metro C line at the Aviation/Century station around 9 p.m. She transferred at the Willowbrook/Rosa Parks station and was seen in video footage leaving the Pico station with an unknown person.
Investigation Ongoing
On Monday morning, LAPD spokesperson Jeff Lee confirmed that the agency was still investigating Kobayashi’s disappearance as an active missing persons case. He said there were no updates to share at that time.
Conclusion
The investigation into Kobayashi’s disappearance remains ongoing, with authorities now believing she is in Mexico. The LAPD continues to ask anyone with more information to contact them at (877) 527-3247.
FAQs
Q: Where is Hannah Kobayashi believed to be?
A: According to law enforcement sources, Kobayashi is believed to be in Mexico.
Q: What is the latest update on the investigation?
A: The LAPD is still investigating Kobayashi’s disappearance as an active missing persons case, but there are no new updates at this time.
Q: What was LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell’s statement about Kobayashi’s disappearance?
A: McDonnell stated that Kobayashi “intentionally” missed her connecting flight at Los Angeles International Airport. However, Kobayashi’s family disputes this statement.
Q: What is the current status of Ryan Kobayashi, Hannah’s father?
A: Ryan Kobayashi, 58, was found dead last week near LAX in what police said was an apparent suicide.
Q: How can I contact the LAPD with information about Kobayashi’s disappearance?
A: Anyone with more information can contact the LAPD at (877) 527-3247.
