**Wisconsin Man Found Alive After Faking Death in Kayaking Accident, Located in Uzbekistan**

A missing Wisconsin man, who faked his own death in a staged kayaking accident, has been discovered alive and is believed to be in Uzbekistan. Authorities revealed on Thursday that Ryan Borgwardt, a 45-year-old father of two, is currently in contact with officials who are encouraging him to return home to his family.

Green Lake County Sheriff's deputies were able to reach Borgwardt via a video conversation, during which he confirmed his well-being. Wearing an orange t-shirt, Borgwardt stated, "Good evening, it's Ryan Borgwardt. Today is Nov. 11, it's approximately 10 a.m. by you guys. I'm in my apartment. I am safe, secure, no problem."

Sheriff Mark Podoll shared the details of Borgwardt's elaborate plan to fake his death. On August 12, Borgwardt went out onto Green Lake, discarded his phone in the water, and used a small inflatable boat to return to shore. He then rode an electric bike to Madison, boarded a bus to Detroit, crossed into Canada, and eventually took a plane to Uzbekistan.

Authorities are in ongoing discussions with Borgwardt, urging him to return to the United States. While the reasons behind Borgwardt's move to Uzbekistan remain unclear, officials have confirmed he is there of his own free will. "Our concern has been that he safely gets back to U.S. soil," Podoll said. "He needs to return home to his children."

Borgwardt had been reported missing after his capsized kayak, vehicle, and trailer were found in Dodge Memorial County Park, prompting a thorough air and water search. An international electronic trail later indicated Borgwardt was alive and abroad. Investigators discovered he had opened a foreign bank account, changed his email address, communicated with a woman from Uzbekistan, and had his passport processed by Canadian authorities on August 13.

Sheriff Podoll emphasized the community's potential reaction as Borgwardt's main concern if he were to return. However, Podoll indicated that avoiding criminal charges is possible if Borgwardt cooperates and comes back home soon. "We believe that warrants will not be needed if Ryan cooperates and decides to return home soon," Podoll explained.

As Thanksgiving and Christmas approach, officials are hopeful that the upcoming holidays will encourage Borgwardt to reunite with his family. With evident emotion, Sheriff Podoll made a heartfelt plea for Borgwardt’s return, saying, "Christmas is coming, and what better gift he could give his kids is to be there for Christmas."