Hannah Kobayashi, a 30-year-old photographer from Maui, Hawaii, disappeared under troubling circumstances during her travel to New York City on November 8, 2024. She had planned the trip to visit her aunt as part of a “bucket list” adventure. Initially flying from Maui to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Hannah missed her connecting flight to New York. Her disappearance has since raised alarms due to a series of unusual developments.
Timeline of Events:
- Initial Journey and Missed Connection (November 8):
Hannah traveled from Maui to Los Angeles with a former boyfriend who had purchased the tickets before their breakup. While he continued to New York as scheduled, Hannah did not board the connecting flight. Security footage confirmed her arrival at LAX, but her actions afterward remain unclear. - Unusual Behavior and Public Sightings:
Following her missed connection, Hannah was reportedly seen at various locations around Los Angeles, including The Grove shopping center and a nearby Nike event. Surveillance footage also captured her at a downtown Metro station near Crypto.com Arena on November 11, appearing disoriented and in the company of an unidentified individual. Her family noted that she “did not appear safe” in the video. - Alarming Communications:
During her time in Los Angeles, Hannah sent cryptic and concerning messages to her family and friends. In one text, she claimed her identity and funds had been stolen, stating she was caught in a “mind hack.” These messages deepened her family’s fears that she may have been coerced or abducted. - Family Response and Missing Person Report (November 11):
Hannah’s family, alarmed by her erratic communications and lack of contact, filed a missing person’s report. They also traveled to Los Angeles to join the search efforts. Flyers with her description were distributed, and local authorities launched an investigation. - Tragic Development – Father’s Death (November 24):
Ryan Kobayashi, Hannah’s father, traveled to Los Angeles to aid in the search. After nearly two weeks of intense effort, he was found dead near a parking structure at LAX. His family later revealed that he died by suicide, overwhelmed by the emotional toll of the search and concern for his daughter. His death has further devastated the family.
Ongoing Investigation and Concerns:
The circumstances surrounding Hannah’s disappearance remain unclear. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and the unusual texts sent from her phone, which suggest she may have been targeted by malicious individuals. Her family fears she was abducted and is urging the public to come forward with any information.
Hannah is described as 5’10” tall, weighing approximately 140 lbs, with brown hair, fair skin, and freckles. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local authorities.
The family has requested privacy during this difficult time while continuing to advocate for Hannah’s safe return.