The search for missing photographer Hannah Kobayashi has taken a dramatic turn following the release of new CCTV footage by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The footage shows the 31-year-old safely crossing the southern US border into Mexico, a revelation that has shifted the focus of the investigation.

Hannah Kobayashi was last seen on November 8 after missing a connecting flight to New York from her earlier trip in Maui, Hawaii. She had taken the flight with her ex-boyfriend, who had booked the trip before their separation.

Concerns about her well-being heightened when her family received a mysterious text from her phone, claiming she had experienced a “spiritual awakening.”

The new video footage indicated that Kobayashi crossed the border into Tijuana between November 12 and 13, just four days after her arrival in Los Angeles. She was seen alone with her luggage, raising questions about her state of mind and intentions at the time.

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell confirmed that the investigation has not uncovered any evidence suggesting that Kobayashi is a victim of trafficking or foul play. He noted that she is not considered a suspect in any criminal activity.

Tragically, Kobayashi’s father, Ryan Kobayashi, who flew to Los Angeles to assist in the search for his daughter, was found dead at the airport where she was last seen. His family has stated that he took his own life, compounding the family’s grief during this already distressing time.

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Despite these developments, Hannah’s phone has remained switched off since November 11, with its last known location being LAX Airport. Concerns for her safety persist, particularly as her mother, Brandi Yee, revealed that a friend had expressed Hannah’s fearfulness at the time she vanished. Hannah had sent unsettling texts to her sister, indicating that she felt scared and unable to return home.

The LAPD continues to investigate, urging anyone with information about Hannah’s whereabouts to come forward.