The case of Hannah Kobayashi, a 30-year-old woman from Hawaii, has captured national attention. Disappearing under puzzling circumstances in early November, Kobayashi’s case has left her family, supporters, and investigators scrambling for answers. Despite extensive efforts, her whereabouts remain unknown.
As Dec. 11 marks one month since her last contact with her family, here’s a comprehensive timeline of events and key updates about the case, which now includes allegations of fraud and a suspected green card scheme.
Timeline of Hannah Kobayashi’s Disappearance
Nov. 8: Kobayashi and her ex-boyfriend board a flight from Maui to New York with a layover in Los Angeles. Her ex continues to New York, but Kobayashi claims she missed her connection.
Nov. 9: Kobayashi texts her family, mentioning sightseeing in Los Angeles and visiting popular locations such as The Grove and downtown L.A.
Nov. 10: She attends a Nike event at The Grove, uploads a photo to Instagram, and makes two Venmo transactions to unknown individuals, verified by Yahoo News.
Nov. 11: Kobayashi informs her aunt, Larie Pidgeon, that she’s heading to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for a flight to New York. During this time, she mentions being “hacked” and “tricked” into giving money to someone she trusted. Her final message to her family reveals she underwent a "spiritual awakening" and might need assistance traveling.
Nov. 12: Kobayashi’s family files a missing person report in California, and her father, Ryan, flies to Los Angeles to assist with the search.
Nov. 15: The LAPD shares Kobayashi’s disappearance on Facebook.
Nov. 17: Surveillance footage surfaces showing Kobayashi near a Metro train station in downtown L.A.
Nov. 21: Volunteers, including Kobayashi’s father, search the area near the train station and distribute missing person posters.
Nov. 23: In an interview, Pidgeon reveals that Kobayashi planned a detailed New York itinerary, including hotel bookings and activities.
Nov. 24: Tragedy strikes as Kobayashi’s father, Ryan, dies by suicide near LAX.
Nov. 26: LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell states that Kobayashi intentionally missed her connecting flight to New York.
Nov. 30: Kobayashi’s family disputes LAPD's claim, emphasizing that she would not intentionally cut off communication.
Dec. 2: Video evidence reportedly shows Kobayashi crossing into Mexico alone. The family expresses frustration over limited updates from the LAPD.
Dec. 4: The family issues a statement saying, “The search is far from over,” emphasizing fears heightened by the revelation of her presence in Mexico.
Emerging Details: Allegations of Fraud and a Green Card Scam
Recent developments suggest Kobayashi may have been the victim of a green card scam orchestrated by her ex-boyfriend.
Fake Marriage Allegations: Documents uncovered by her mother, Brandi Yee, indicate Kobayashi may have entered into a fraudulent marriage with an Argentinian man named Alan Cacace, facilitated by her ex.
Financial Exploitation: Kobayashi texted friends about losing her funds to someone she trusted, hinting at deceit.
Uncooperative Witnesses: Attempts to contact the immigration attorney involved were unsuccessful, adding to the family’s frustration.
FBI Involvement
The FBI is now reviewing the case following the discovery of potential fraudulent activities. While the LAPD remains the lead agency, federal investigators are reportedly examining new allegations linked to Kobayashi's disappearance.
Family’s Plea for Answers
Kobayashi’s family continues to advocate for transparency and action, urging the public and authorities to keep searching. “It has been 22 agonizing days since we last heard from her,” their recent statement reads.
What’s Next?
As the investigation evolves, the Kobayashi family, supported by their attorney and online community, remains determined to uncover the truth. The bizarre twists in this case highlight the urgency of unraveling Hannah Kobayashi’s disappearance and ensuring her safety.
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