Family of Missing Hawaii Woman "Holding On by a Thread" as Search Continues After Tragedy

Family of Missing Hawaii Woman, Hannah Kobayashi, Devastated by Tragedy, Continue Search Amid New Developments

HONOLULU (KHON2) — The search for 31-year-old Hannah Kobayashi, a Maui woman who went missing two weeks ago after her phone was last traced to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), is ongoing, despite a tragic turn of events for her family.

In a heartbreaking update, the Kobayashi family received disturbing news on Saturday, Nov. 23, indicating that Hannah may be held against her will in Los Angeles. The situation has led to growing concerns about the possibility of human trafficking or abduction.

Hannah's family, including her father, Ryan Kobayashi, traveled to Los Angeles to help with the search. However, the family received devastating news over the weekend when Ryan tragically took his own life, adding to their overwhelming grief. Despite this, the family remains resolute in their commitment to finding Hannah.

“We’re holding on by a thread, but we’re not giving up,” said Hannah’s aunt, Larie Pidgeon.

The LAPD is actively investigating the case, though details remain scarce due to the sensitive nature of the investigation. Former Homeland Security Investigations Honolulu special agent, Wayne Wills, explained that law enforcement agencies often withhold information during human trafficking investigations to prevent compromising the case.

As the investigation continues, Hannah’s family is focusing their search efforts around Union Train Station, the Arts District, and Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, where surveillance footage from Nov. 11 showed Hannah with an unidentified individual near a subway station. They are hoping that spreading fliers and raising awareness will prompt any witnesses to come forward.

The family also released a public plea on Nov. 24, urging the community to stay focused on finding Hannah.

“The Kobayashi family is urgently pleading with the public to maintain focus on the search for Hannah. She is still actively missing and believed to be in imminent danger,” the statement read.

Hannah’s family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time, asking for support and compassion as they grieve their unimaginable loss. They also continue to encourage anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact the LAPD.

If you see Hannah or have any information on her whereabouts, please call 911 immediately and provide any details or photographs if possible.

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