### Man Who Faked Kayaking Death Found Safe in Eastern Europe

A Wisconsin man, who faked his own death and vanished three months ago, has resurfaced in Eastern Europe. Ryan Borgwardt, known for staging his own drowning in Green Lake, has been in consistent communication with authorities, even sending them a video this month confirming his safety.

Green Lake County Sheriff, Mark A. Podoll, showcased the 24-second video during a press conference on Thursday. In the footage, Borgwardt is seen in what appears to be a minimalistic apartment with white walls and a gray door. “Good evening, it’s Ryan Borgwardt,” he quietly states. “Today is Nov. 11. It’s approximately 10 a.m. by you guys. I’m in my apartment. I am safe, secure, no problem. I hope this works.”

Although authorities have pinpointed Borgwardt's general location to Eastern Europe, the exact site remains unknown. Sheriff Podoll shared that investigators are almost in daily contact with him, urging his return to the U.S. to address the resulting turmoil.

Ryan Borgwardt, a 45-year-old from Watertown, Wisconsin, left behind a wife and three children when he orchestrated his disappearance in August. Pretending to have drowned while kayaking, Borgwardt abandoned a capsized kayak and his vehicle. Authorities also discovered his fishing rod, tackle box, keys, wallet, and driver’s license, which led them to conduct an extensive search in Green Lake.

The ruse was uncovered when a digital forensic investigation of a laptop, provided by Borgwardt’s wife, revealed his communications with a woman in Uzbekistan, and the transfer of funds to a foreign account. It also showed that he had purchased an airline gift card and acquired a $375,000 life insurance policy intended for his family.

In the recent exchanges with investigators, Borgwardt detailed his escape. After ditching his kayak, he rode an e-bike to Madison, Wisconsin, then traveled by bus to Detroit, and finally reached a Canadian airport to board a flight. The specific destination remains undisclosed.

Earlier this month, authorities managed to connect with a Russian-speaking woman through phone numbers and emails found on the laptop. She ultimately connected them to Borgwardt, though it is unclear if she is the same woman he had been in contact with previously.

The sheriff revealed that while Borgwardt did not elaborate on his motivations, he has expressed regret for the distress caused to his family and the resources expended in the search. If Borgwardt returns to Wisconsin, he could face charges for obstruction and might be required to reimburse the $40,000 spent on the search.

Sheriff Podoll, hopeful for Borgwardt’s return, ended the press conference with an emotional plea, noting that a homecoming would be the best Christmas gift for Borgwardt’s children.