**Ryan Borgwardt, missing since August, has contacted police to confirm his safety, but remains elusive amid growing concerns for his family.**
**Kayaker's Grand Escape: Man Who Faked His Own Death Now Safe in Europe**
**Kayaker's Grand Escape: Man Who Faked His Own Death Now Safe in Europe**
**New developments surface as a man who disappeared during a fishing trip proves he is alive, leaving authorities baffled.**
In a twist that has captivated the nation, 45-year-old Ryan Borgwardt, who is accused of faking his own drowning death, has surfaced in contact with police, sharing a video to confirm his safety. Disappearing on August 12 during a solo fishing excursion in Green Lake County, Wisconsin, authorities initially launched a lengthy search, suspecting he had drowned. However, digital clues surfaced, prompting an investigation that suggested he had fled to Eastern Europe.
"While it’s reassuring to know he is alive, we still don’t have his exact whereabouts, nor does he intend to return,” stated Sheriff Mark Podell during the news conference on Thursday. The video, filmed selfie-style from what appears to be a stark apartment, finds Borgwardt addressing the camera: “Good evening, it’s Ryan Borgwardt... I am safe, secure, no problem. I hope this works.”
Communication between Borgwardt and the authorities has continued, spearheaded by an intermediary who connects with him in Russian. Using emotional appeals, police attempt to convince him to return to confront the aftermath of his actions. The sheriff disclosed that Borgwardt detailed his elaborate escape plan, which involved sinking a kayak and his phone, then navigating to an hidden E-bike, cycling to Madison, boarding a bus to Detroit, and ultimately flying from Canada to an undisclosed location.
Authorities have not yet attributed any criminal charges against Borgwardt, but he faces a reimbursement demand of $40,000 for the extensive search efforts he cost taxpayers. Despite the revelation of his well-being, a somber note remains as the sheriff reflected on the impact on Borgwardt’s family, who he has not contacted since his departure. He left behind a wife and three children, a situation exacerbated by his recent purchase of a $375,000 life insurance policy and substantial financial maneuvers before vanishing.
“Christmas is coming up, and what better gift to give those kids than to be there for Christmas?” Sheriff Podell lamented, highlighting the emotional toll of the incident. The unfolding saga continues to raise questions about his intentions and the impact on his loved ones left in the wake of his decision.
