Ryan Kobayashi, father of the missing Hannah Kobayashi took his own life on 24 November, almost after 3 weeks of searching for his daughter. Hannah Kobayashi was reported missing on 11 November, 3 days after she missed her connecting flight from Los Angeles to New York.
The 58-year-old Ryan Kobayashi had flown down to Los Angeles to help search for Hannah Kobayashi who was last seen at Los Angeles airport after sending alarming texts (that were unlike her) to her close ones.
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to ABC News that Ryan Kobayashi’s body was discovered early Sunday morning at approximately 4 a.m. The location was identified as 6151 W. Century Blvd., a commercial area close to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s report released on Monday, the death was ruled a suicide. The report stated that Kobayashi died from multiple blunt-force traumatic injuries and indicated that his body was located in a parking lot.
Family's explanation of why Hannah Kobayashi's father took his own life
45-year-old Larie Pidgeon, Hannah Kobayashi's aunt and Ryan's sister-in-law told People Magazine that he:
"Died of a broken heart"
Pidgeon also added that the search probably got too much for Ryan who had to drive around the streets wondering where his daughter might have ended up. She said:
“I think it just became so overwhelming for him driving the streets, going to Skid Row and seeing where his daughter could possibly have ended up."
Although Pidgeon says she thought that Ryan's mental health got hampered with time, she said:
“We really want everyone to know that he fought so hard. Imagine if it was your daughter.”
Pidgeon mentioned that the family is determined to put an end to speculation suggesting Ryan was involved in his daughter’s disappearance. They also do not believe his death was the result of foul play. Authorities have not identified any suspects or persons of interest in Hannah Kobayashi’s case.
Search for Hannah Kobayashi continues
The Kobayashi family released a heartfelt statement sharing their deep sorrow and urging people to remain focused on the search for Hannah Kobayashi. In the statement, they wrote:
"The Kobayashi family endured a devastating tragedy today. After tirelessly searching throughout Los Angeles for 13 days, Hannah’s father, Ryan Kobayashi, tragically took his own life. This loss has compounded the family's suffering immeasurably. "
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In the statement, the family also requests sensitivity in how people communicate online, urging everyone to avoid hurtful or speculative comments. They expressed dealing with immense trauma from both Hannah’s disappearance and Ryan’s death, and they need space and compassion as they try to process their loss and plan their next steps forward.
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