Wisconsin Kayaker Faked Death to Escape to Europe

Ryan Borgwardt, a 45-year-old Wisconsin kayaker, faked his own death in August to flee to Eastern Europe, abandoning his wife and three children. He staged a drowning incident on Green Lake and used an e-bike, buses, and a flight from Canada to execute his escape plan. Borgwardt has been in contact with Wisconsin authorities, providing a 'proof of life' video and citing 'personal matters' as his reason for leaving. Authorities discovered details of his plan through digital evidence, including communications with a woman in Uzbekistan and financial transactions. While no charges have been filed, potential legal consequences remain as investigators continue to verify his story. Despite police efforts to persuade him, Borgwardt has not committed to returning home.