The family of Hannah Kobayashi, who was recently found safe after being reported missing in Los Angeles last month, is offering a refund to those who donated to an online fundraiser during the search for her.
Kobayashi’s family announced on Wednesday that she’s been located, and she’s safe. That statement came after the family previously disputed the L.A. Police Department’s assertion that she was voluntarily missing.
The Maui woman went missing on Nov. 8 when she missed a connecting flight from LAX to New York City. The bizarre search for the woman took many twist and turns, including a tragic one when her father, Ryan Kobayashi, was found dead in a parking lot near LAX on Nov. 24.
Hannah Kobayashi seen at LAX on Nov. 8, 2024, in a surveillance photo obtained by family members. (viewer image)
Authorities say it’s believed that he died by suicide.
Hannah was last spotted crossing the border into Mexico on Nov. 12, but it’s unknown where she was when the family called off the search on Wednesday.
On Thursday, one day later, the family issued an update on the GoFundMe page organized to benefit the search, and cover Ryan’s funeral costs.
“We are incredibly relieved and grateful that Hannah has been found safe,” the statement reads. “This past month has been an unimaginable ordeal for our family. 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 family said any donor that would like a refund can submit a claim by Dec. 18. As of 11 a.m. Thursday, 884 donors have raised more than $47,000.
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