Yohanes Kidane, Missing Netflix Engineer: What We Know So Far

Yohanes Kidane, a young software engineer who recently began working at Netflix, has been missing since August 14, 2023. He was last seen entering an Uber in San Jose, heading to San Francisco. While some of his belongings were discovered near the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Jose Police Department has found no evidence of foul play. His family is actively involved in search efforts.

The San José Police Department has been actively investigating the case since Yohanes Kidane was reported missing on August 15, 2023, at approximately 2:45 pm. Initial reports were taken by patrol officers, and the Missing Persons Unit has since taken over the investigation. Detectives discovered that Kidane used a rideshare service to travel from San Jose to San Francisco, where he was last seen.

The police are coordinating their efforts with multiple agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District, the United States Coast Guard, and the involved rideshare service. Despite the extensive investigation, no evidence suggesting criminal activity has been found. The family has been kept informed of all significant developments in the case.

Kidane's older brother, Yosief Kidane, revealed that some of Yohanes' belongings were discovered near the Golden Gate Bridge. A missing person flyer describes Kidane as a Black man, 5 feet 8 inches tall, and weighing around 150 pounds. He was last seen wearing gray sweatpants, a black hoodie, and black shoes.

The family's concern escalated when Kidane's phone location was found to be at the Golden Gate Bridge, more than an hour away from his apartment. His wallet and cellphone were later found at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center. A commuter discovered these items and handed them over to the Marin California Highway Patrol.

People has also initiated a GoFundMe campaign to cover the expenses for travel, private investigators, attorneys, and other resources needed for the search. As of the latest update, the fundraiser has collected nearly $99,000 of its $150,000 goal.

The case has drawn attention not only from the local community but also from Kidane's workplace. Netflix has not issued an official statement, but the impact is felt among his colleagues and friends. Kidane, a recent graduate of Cornell University, had just started his job as a software engineer at Netflix.

Kidane's disappearance has also caught the attention of local community organizations and activists who are urging for more proactive measures in the search. While the San José Police Department has been coordinating with multiple agencies, some community members are calling for increased visibility and public awareness campaigns.

The case has also raised questions about the safety of rideshare services. Kidane had a strange encounter with an Uber driver just days before his disappearance. The driver insisted on taking him through Oakland, raising Kidane's suspicions and leading him to cancel the ride after crossing the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. This incident has prompted discussions about the need for enhanced safety measures within rideshare services.

Kidane disappeared days after he expressed hesitancy about taking rideshares alone after having a “strange encounter” with an Uber driver. While trying to get home the Saturday before he went missing, Kidane had an unusual and uncomfortable ride with an Uber driver who insisted on taking a less direct route to his San Jose apartment. The driver was insistent on taking him through Oakland, and Yohanes, suspicious of his intentions, was finally able to cancel his ride after crossing the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge

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In addition to the GoFundMe campaign, social media has played a significant role in spreading awareness about Kidane's case. Hashtags like #FindYohanes and #MissingPerson have been trending, drawing attention from people across the country. The campaign has received donations from over 1,600 individuals, including a top donation of $1,000.

Kidane's family and friends have been actively involved in the search, distributing flyers and reaching out to local businesses for CCTV footage. They have also been in contact with private investigators and legal advisors to explore all possible avenues for finding him.

The case remains a high priority for the San José Police Department. Detectives are following all leads and have not ruled out any possibilities. “The case will remain open until Mr. Kidane is located,” stated Anthony Mata and Paul Joseph from the San José Police Media Relations.

As the search for Yohanes Kidane continues, the emotional and financial toll on his family is mounting. Yet, they remain hopeful and committed to finding him. “We cannot express enough gratitude for any help you can provide,” reads the closing statement on the GoFundMe page.

The family's resilience and the community's support exemplify the collective effort to bring Yohanes Kidane home. With each passing day, the urgency intensifies, but so does the resolve to find answers and hopefully, find Yohanes Kidane.

The disappearance of Yohanes Kidane remains a pressing concern for his family, the community, and authorities. Despite extensive investigations and public appeals, Kidane has not been located, and no evidence of criminal activity has been found. The case serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities that can exist even in seemingly safe environments. As the search continues, the hope remains that Kidane will be found and reunited with his family, bringing closure to a case that has gripped the community.

The family is urging anyone with information to contact the San Jose Police Department at (408) 277-8900 and reference case number 23-227-0531. Despite the lack of evidence pointing to a crime, the case remains open, and the search for Yohanes Kidane continues.

Body of Yohanes Kidane Found!

The month-long search for 22-year-old Netflix engineer Yohanes Kidane ended tragically with the discovery of his body in the San Francisco Bay, sparking discussions on mental health support in high-stress professions. For the latest updates on this story, read our comprehensive coverage.