Authorities now suspect that Ryan Borgwardt, a father of three who was believed to have drowned while kayaking on a Wisconsin lake, faked his disappearance and fled the country
. After a 54-day search, Green Lake County Sheriff Mark Podoll announced on November 8 that new evidence suggests Borgwardt planned his disappearance and is likely in Europe.
The search began on August 12, when deputies were called to Dodge Memorial Park, where Borgwardt’s vehicle and trailer were found. Later that evening, a capsized kayak was discovered in Green Lake.
In the following days, searchers recovered his fishing rod and tackle box, which contained his wallet, keys, and ID. His wife had last spoken to him on August 11.
Despite extensive efforts, including the involvement of divers, search dogs, and a volunteer recovery group, no body was found. On October 7, the investigation took a new turn when authorities learned that Borgwardt’s passport had been scanned by Canadian border officials on August 13, just one day after he was reported missing.
Further investigations revealed that Borgwardt had reported his passport lost in May and obtained a replacement.
It was also discovered that he had cleared his computer’s browser history, replaced the hard drive, transferred funds to a foreign bank account, and had been in contact with someone in Uzbekistan. Earlier in the year, he had taken out a $375,000 life insurance policy, raising further concerns.
Sheriff Podoll acknowledged the emotional impact on Borgwardt’s family, particularly his children, who believed he had drowned. “They thought their dad was gone, and now they’ve found out he isn’t,” he said.
In a direct message to Borgwardt, the sheriff urged him to come forward. “Ryan, if you’re out there, please contact your family or the authorities. Your family wants you back, and they deserve answers.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate and hope Borgwardt will take responsibility for his actions and return to his family.
