Hannah Kobayashi’s disappearance sparked a major search last year
A woman from the United States who captured widespread attention after disappearing from Los Angeles late last year has recently shared a poignant video reflecting on ‘loss’ following the passing of her father.
Hannah Kobayashi’s name became a headline both nationally and globally after her family reported her missing. The alarm was raised when she failed to board a connecting flight from LAX to New York on November 8, alongside her ex-boyfriend.
Two days later, her mother and sister officially reported her disappearance, sparking an extensive search effort.
Initially classified as a missing person case, the investigation shifted when footage surfaced showing Kobayashi crossing the US-Mexico border, leading authorities to reclassify her status as a ‘voluntary missing person.’
For nearly a month, her precise location remained a mystery until December 11, when she was finally located in Mexico.
A sighting of Hannah, shared after her disappearance (Missing People In America)
In the weeks following Hannah Kobayashi’s disappearance, her family endured a heartbreaking blow. Her father, Ryan Kobayashi, who had traveled to Los Angeles to assist in the search for his daughter, was discovered dead at the base of a parking garage. Authorities later ruled his death a suicide.
Since then, Hannah has maintained a low profile, quietly navigating the aftermath of these tragic events. Yet recently, she resurfaced with a heartfelt video reflecting on the theme of loss in her life.
Sharing a message through Instagram Stories, the 31-year-old expressed deep gratitude to those who had invested their time and energy searching for her last year.
“It means the world to me,” she said sincerely. “Thank you so much… from the bottom of my heart.”
Credit: Instagram/midorieve
Following her initial message, Hannah shared a second, deeply moving video where she reflected on life as “such a gift.”
“Especially after so much loss… and pain, and suffering,” a tearful Hannah revealed.
“We should all learn to show kindness to one another, regardless of the circumstances, and treasure every single moment we are given.”
Though she didn’t explicitly mention her father, many of the photographer’s followers interpreted her words as a tribute connected to his passing.
Her first post on Instagram since her disappearance in November featured a black-and-white photograph of trees, accompanied by a thoughtful caption about “unwaivering [sic] resilience” serving as a “true remembrance.”
Ryan Kobayashi, Hannah’s father, tragically died by suicide during the month she was missing, according to reports from ABC 7.
Her recent post sparked an outpouring of compassion from followers, many expressing relief at seeing Hannah reconnect with her audience.
“It’s so wonderful to see you back! Sending you love and light,” one commenter wrote. Another shared their own journey through the pain of losing a parent: “Wishing you strength for the road ahead. I’m truly sorry for your loss.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with similar feelings, please remember you don’t have to face it alone. Help is available. You can reach out to Samaritans anytime, day or night, through their confidential 24-hour helpline at 116 123.
Featured Image Credit: (Facebook)