Hannah Kobayashi has broken her silence after returning to the United States, stating that she was “unaware of everything” happening in the media during her disappearance and is now focused on healing. The 31-year-old aspiring photographer, who vanished last month after crossing into Mexico, confirmed she returned to the U.S. on December 15 and expressed gratitude for the support from her family and others.
Kobayashi’s disappearance sparked widespread attention, especially as it coincided with her father Ryan Kobayashi’s tragic death by suicide near LAX while assisting in the search. Authorities later revealed that she had voluntarily crossed the border into Mexico.
Complicating matters, reports emerged of a messy personal situation involving Kobayashi’s alleged “Green Card marriage” to Alan Cacace, her ex-boyfriend Amun Miranda, and his girlfriend. The group’s entangled relationships, combined with the circumstances of her disappearance, led to speculation about her mental health, personal struggles, and use of psychedelics, which some close to her described as problematic.
Following her return, Kobayashi’s family released a statement expressing relief and gratitude, asking for privacy as they process the ordeal. The family also addressed backlash over donations raised for the search, promising to honor refund requests.
Lt. Doug Oldfield from the LAPD confirmed the case is now closed, as Kobayashi did not appear to be under distress upon her return.
