A man from Wisconsin, Ryan Borgwardt, age 45, who recently faked his own death, has sent out a video confirming his well-being to investigators back in his home state. The Green Lake County Sheriff's Office disclosed that Borgwardt disappeared on August 12 during what was supposed to be a solo fishing expedition. Initially, authorities believed he had drowned, engaging in a search that lasted 54 days. However, they later uncovered digital clues that led them to suspect he had fled to Eastern Europe.
Sheriff Mark Podoll reported in a press conference that Borgwardt owes $40,000 (£32,000) for the extensive search efforts and could face charges for obstructing the investigation into his disappearance. Police contacted Borgwardt through a woman fluent in Russian, who served as the intermediary. Though these communications have brought reassurance that Borgwardt is alive, his exact location remains a mystery.
The authorities released a 24-second video where Borgwardt appears safe, speaking directly to the camera from a modest apartment setting. “Good evening, it’s Ryan Borgwardt... I am safe, secure, no problem,” he assured in the video recorded on November 11.
During discussions with law enforcement, Borgwardt allegedly detailed how he executed his planned escape. Reports suggest he first sunk his kayak along with his mobile phone, eventually using a small boat to retrieve a pre-stashed E-bike. This allowed him to cycle overnight to Madison, before heading to Canada via bus and boarding a flight to an undisclosed location.
Sheriff Podoll has expressed concern for Borgwardt’s three children and his wife, who have been left without any contact since his disappearance. Authorities have noted that prior to his escape, Borgwardt had taken out a substantial life insurance policy, transferred money abroad, and even exchanged messages with a woman in Uzbekistan.
When questioned about Borgwardt’s motivations, Podoll stated he had “personal matters” that led him to take such drastic actions. The sheriff has been engaging with Borgwardt through heartfelt emails in hopes of persuading him to return home and face the consequences of his actions, especially as the Christmas season approaches—a poignant time for the children without their father.
