In a shocking development, Ryan Borgwardt, a 45-year-old man from Wisconsin, has reached out to authorities with a video message claiming he is safe after faking his own death. The Green Lake County Sheriff's Office reported that Borgwardt went missing on August 12 while supposedly on a solo fishing excursion, initially leading investigators to believe he had drowned.
After an extensive 54-day search of the lake yielded no evidence of his demise, police began to suspect that Borgwardt had orchestrated a disappearance to start a new life. Sheriff Mark Podoll stated that digital clues led them to surmise he might have fled to Eastern Europe.
In a recent press conference, Podoll announced that Borgwardt had contacted authorities after a key intermediary, a Russian-speaking woman, facilitated communication. Although the identity of this woman remains undisclosed, her involvement was critical in connecting Borgwardt to law enforcement. Podoll noted, "The great news is he's still alive and well. The bad news is that we don’t know where exactly Ryan is, and he has not decided to return home."
The authorities received a 24-second video shot by Borgwardt, in which he confidently announces, "I am safe, secure, no problem," despite leaving behind his wife and three children. Investigators revealed that prior to his disappearance, Borgwardt took out a substantial life insurance policy and transferred money internationally, indicating a premeditated plan to vanish.
Evidence suggests he embarked on a covert escape after intentionally sinking his kayak and phone, making his way to shore in a small boat to retrieve an E-bike he had hidden away. From there, Borgwardt cycled to Madison and ultimately traveled to Canada before boarding a flight.
As law enforcement pieces together the timeline of his actions, Podoll expressed concern for Borgwardt's family, particularly with the holiday season approaching. "Christmas is coming up, and what better gift to give those kids than to be there for Christmas," he remarked, emphasizing the emotional toll of the situation.
Podoll revealed that they have been in contact with Borgwardt through email, attempting to persuade him to return and face the consequences of his actions. Authorities are now left to determine the next steps, as Borgwardt remains at large while his family yearns for his return.
