Hannah Kobayashi: Missing woman whose father took his own life after trying to find her 'found safe'

A woman whose father took his own life after she went missing has been "found safe", her family and police have said.

Hannah Kobayashi, 30, flew from Hawaii to Los Angeles early last month.

She was intending to take another flight to New York on 8 November but missed her connection.

The budding photographer from Maui vanished days later after sending "alarming" texts to her family.

Police subsequently revealed that video footage showed her walking into Mexico, 125 miles southeast of Los Angeles, on 12 November.

Her family had reported her missing the day before.

Her father, Ryan, flew out to Los Angeles to try to find her, searching with other family members and volunteers.

In late November, he was found dead in a car park near LA International Airport after taking his own life, police and his family said.

On Wednesday evening, Ms Kobayashi's family released a statement saying she had been "found safe".

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) also said she had been located.

The family statement, signed Brandi Yee and Sydni Kobayashi, said: "We are incredibly relieved and grateful that Hannah has been found safe.

"This past month has been an unimaginable ordeal for our family, and we kindly ask for privacy as we take the time to heal and process everything we have been through.

"We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us during this difficult time. Your kindness and concern have meant the world to us."

The LAPD said it was "happy to learn" that Ms Kobayashi had been found.

"Now that we have this new information, this has become a private matter and we will wrap up our investigation," it added.

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In early December, police issued a statement saying Ms Kobayashi had disappeared voluntarily.

Officers said she wanted to "step away from modern connectivity" and was last seen crossing into Mexico with her luggage.

Los Angeles police chief Jim McDonnell said there was no evidence she was trafficked or a victim of a crime and classified her disappearance as that of a "voluntary missing person".

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK

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