Wisconsin Man Who Faked Death to Escape Family Found Alive in Europe

Ryan Borgwardt staged his disappearance on Green Lake in August, leaving behind a costly search effort, and is now in communication with authorities but has not committed to returning home.

Ryan Borgwardt, a 44-year-old Wisconsin man, faked his drowning in August to leave his wife and three children and is currently living in Eastern Europe.
Authorities have been in daily communication with Borgwardt since November 11 but do not know his exact location or whether he plans to return to the U.S.
Borgwardt meticulously staged his disappearance by overturning his kayak, dumping his phone in Green Lake, and fleeing using an electric bike, buses, and a flight from Canada to Europe.
The extensive 54-day search for Borgwardt, which cost up to $40,000, uncovered evidence he had planned his escape, including securing a new passport, transferring funds, and communicating with a woman in Uzbekistan.
Authorities are considering obstruction charges and seeking restitution for the costly search, while Borgwardt has expressed concerns about how his community will react if he returns.