Serialously with Annie Elise - Episode 218: Man Who Faked Death Speaks Out, Hannah Kobayashi’s Father Dead, Teen Leaves Dead Baby in Box, & Girl Found Dead on Alaskan Trail

Published on November 28, 2024 | Hosted by 10 to LIFE & Audioboom Studios

Introduction

In Episode 218 of Serialously with Annie Elise, host Annie Elise delves into a series of gripping true crime stories, ranging from a man faking his death to tragic losses involving young individuals. This episode, aptly titled "Man Who Faked Death Speaks Out, Hannah Kobayashi’s Father Dead, Teen Leaves Dead Baby in Box, & Girl Found Dead on Alaskan Trail," offers a comprehensive exploration of each case, enriched with insightful commentary and notable quotations from involved parties.

1. Ryan Borgwar: The Man Who Faked His Death

Background & Investigation: Ryan Borgwar, a man from Wisconsin, was initially presumed dead after an apparent kayaking accident in Green Lake last summer. Detectives, however, uncovered inconsistencies suggesting he might have faked his death to escape family obligations and pursue a relationship with someone he met online, potentially in Uzbekistan—a detail Annie Elise humorously notes she needed help pronouncing.

Police Confirmation: In a significant development, the Brown County Sheriff's Office confirmed that Ryan is alive. On November 11, Ryan communicated with the police, providing a video statement from his apartment without revealing specific details about his new life in Eastern Europe.

Notable Quote: Matt, a representative from the Brown County Sheriff's Office, stated at [02:49], “Today is November 11th. It's approximately 10am by you guys. I'm in my apartment. I am safe, secure, no problem. Hope this works.”

Impact & Analysis: Annie Elise critiques Ryan’s actions, highlighting the emotional turmoil inflicted upon his family and the substantial resources wasted by law enforcement—estimated between $35,000 and $40,000. She emphasizes the psychological damage to his children, questioning his morality and the depth of his deceit.

Further Developments: Ryan disclosed his elaborate plan to fake his death, detailing methods such as stashing an E-bike and navigating through multiple cities to reach the Canadian border before flying out. Despite expressing regret, Ryan remains unwilling to return, leading to ongoing communications with the police focused on persuading him to come home.

Notable Quote: Matt elaborated on Ryan’s escape plan at [08:22], “He stashed an E bike near the boat launch. He paddled his kayak in a child-sized floating boat out into the lake...”

Current Status: Police continue to monitor Ryan’s communications, developing trust with him while grappling with the possibility of criminal charges should he choose to return. The community remains skeptical, with rumors swirling about Ryan's motives, although Annie Elise maintains that his actions stemmed from personal turmoil rather than any criminal intent.

2. The Tragic Death of Juan Jang and Dartmouth’s Response

Case Details: In July, Dartmouth College student Juan Jang was found drowned in the Connecticut River, with a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit. Initial investigations pointed to an off-campus party hosted by the Alpha Phi sorority, where underage drinking occurred.

Legal Actions: Two members of the Beta Alpha Omega fraternity, Matthew Cat Rambone and Samuel Terry, were arrested and charged with misdemeanors for providing alcohol to Juan, who was underage. Additionally, Alpha Phi sorority faced charges for hosting the illicit party.

Notable Quote: Michael, Juan’s father, expressed the ongoing challenges faced by the family at [14:43], “The college saying, 'These suspensions remain in effect pending the results of Dartmouth's internal investigation and conduct process, which is still ongoing.'”

Institutional Response: Dartmouth College responded by suspending Greek Life chapters involved and implementing measures to enhance campus safety. Initiatives include increased security near waterfronts, improved lighting, and mandatory water safety training for students.

Comparative Analysis: Annie Elise draws parallels between Juan’s case and previous incidents, underscoring the recurring issues of irresponsible drinking and the dire need for better alcohol management within college communities. She highlights Dartmouth’s efforts to create a more secure and inclusive environment, although challenges persist.

3. Alina Tonis: A Teen's Mysterious Death in Alaska

Circumstances of Death: On November 15, Alaskan state troopers discovered the body of 16-year-old Alina Tonis near a storage facility trail in Wasilla, Alaska. While initial autopsy reports indicated no traumatic injuries, toxicology results are pending, rendering her death suspicious.

Background: Alina struggled with mental health and drug addiction, leading to her dropping out of school and spending time in juvenile detention. Despite attempts by her family to secure mental health treatment post-release, systemic failures left her without adequate support.

Notable Quote: Annie Elise reflects on systemic shortcomings at [19:29], “She was born addicted to the drugs, which insinuates that her mother was actively using while pregnant with Alina...”

Investigation Insights: Authorities remain uncertain about the exact cause of Alina’s death, contemplating possibilities such as drug overdose or foul play. The lack of traumatic injuries suggests non-violent causes, but the absence of conclusive toxicology results keeps the investigation open.

Host’s Commentary: Annie Elise emphasizes the need for expanded mental health facilities and better support systems for youth, lamenting how systemic failures contributed to Alina’s tragic end.

4. Hannah Kobayashi’s Disappearance and Her Father Ryan’s Tragic End

Disappearance Details: Hannah Kobayashi vanished from LAX airport while en route to New York with her father, Ryan Kobayashi. Prior to her disappearance, she sent alarming text messages about being hacked and having her identity stolen.

Family’s Search Efforts: Ryan, deeply distressed by Hannah’s disappearance, led an exhaustive search involving the community and law enforcement. His relentless efforts, however, culminated in his suicide on November 24, adding another layer of tragedy to the case.

Notable Quote: Ryan’s heartfelt plea at [23:39], “Hannah, please come home. Please, please, just come home.”

Rumors and Theories: Posthumously, rumors emerged suggesting Ryan might have had ulterior motives, including potential involvement in Hannah’s disappearance. However, Annie Elise dismisses these theories, attributing Ryan’s suicide to overwhelming grief rather than guilt.

Impact on the Community: The family’s suffering intensifies as they grapple with the loss of both Hannah and Ryan. A nonprofit organization continues to aid in the search for Hannah, urging the public to remain vigilant.

Host’s Perspective: Annie Elise shares her personal grief over the loss of her own father, drawing parallels to emphasize the profound impact of such tragedies on families. She advocates for hope amidst despair, though acknowledging the enduring pain.

5. Malachi Harris Charged with Murder of Savannah Copeland in Tennessee

Case Overview: Savannah Copeland, a 13-year-old cheerleader from Powell, Tennessee, was found brutally murdered on October 22 in the Broadacre subdivision. Her body bore multiple stab wounds, raising immediate concerns about foul play.

Arrest and Charges: Fifteen-year-old Malachi Harris was apprehended and charged with second-degree murder. Authorities revealed that Malachi and Savannah met in the woods, where he fatally stabbed her with a pocket knife before fleeing the scene.

Notable Quote: Sheriff commented at [30:46], “There's a lot of conflicting emotions. Of course, the natural one to move toward is anger and rage toward him. But this is someone we cared about.”

Comparative Analysis: Annie Elise draws a stark comparison to the 2021 case of Aiden Fucci and Tristan Bailey in Florida, noting similarities in the heinous nature of the crimes and the youth of the perpetrators. She speculates whether Malachi will face a similar fate, including facing adult charges and potential life imprisonment.

Community Response: The Powell community mourns Savannah, with memorials growing near the crime scene. The Sheriff's Office emphasizes the importance of embracing collective grief and support during such devastating times.

6. Angela Newberry and the Dead Baby in a Safe Haven Box

Incident Description: In October, Angela Newberry was arrested after placing a dead newborn baby inside a Safe Haven box outside Grove Creek Medical Center in Blackfoot, Idaho. Unlike legal surrenders, this act was deemed illegal due to the baby’s deceased state.

Background: Angela, an 18-year-old, gave birth secretly and, following the birth, attempted to surrender the baby without seeking proper medical or legal support. Police investigations revealed she was unaware of the box's monitoring systems, assuming authorities would believe her deceased infant died within the box.

Notable Quote: Monica Kelsey, founder of the Safe Haven baby box, clarified at [32:16], “Let this be clear, this is an illegal, deadly abandonment. Anonymity is only allowed when an infant is safely surrendered and completely unharmed.”

Legal Proceedings: Angela faces charges for failing to report a death. Police discovered inconsistencies in her statements and evidence on her phone questioning the legitimacy of her actions. The case underscores the critical distinction between safe surrender protocols and illegal abandonment.

Host’s Insights: Annie Elise defends the efficacy and importance of Safe Haven boxes, arguing that such resources are vital for parents in crisis. She criticizes the misuse of these facilities, emphasizing that they are not dumpsters but secure options for ensuring a child’s safety.

Comparative Analysis: The incident is compared to the Alexi Trevizo case, where a similar act of abandoning a child led to tragedy. Annie Elise underscores the need for better public understanding and access to mental health resources to prevent such heart-wrenching outcomes.

Conclusion

Episode 218 of Serialously with Annie Elise presents a tapestry of interwoven true crime narratives, each highlighting profound personal tragedies and systemic failures. From the deceitful escape of Ryan Borgwar to the heart-wrenching loss of Hannah Kobayashi's father, the episodes underscore the fragility of human lives and the far-reaching consequences of desperate actions.

Annie Elise’s poignant reflections, particularly regarding her own loss, add a deeply personal layer to the discussions, reinforcing the human element behind each case. Her advocacy for better mental health support and responsible community actions serves as a call to listeners to foster a more compassionate and vigilant society.

Notable Closing Quote: At [32:31], Annie Elise shares a heartfelt message, “I just hope you guys all have a great Thanksgiving if that's something that you celebrate. And even if you don't, maybe just take an extra moment to practice being thankful and grateful in your life because so many people now don't have the opportunity to do that.”

Note: This summary captures the essence of Episode 218, focusing on the primary content while omitting advertisements and non-essential segments. For a more immersive experience, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode on platforms such as YouTube’s 10 to Life channel, Apple Podcasts, or Patreon.