FBI asks public for help in search for missing family
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HONOLULU (KHON2) — The FBI has called upon the public’s help in locating a Hawaii family that has been missing since 2023.
The United States Coast Guard reported that 33-year-old Abigail Bernstein and her two sons, an 11-year-old boy and an 8-year-old boy, went missing after the family failed to return from a year-long journey at sea which began in October 2022.
Abigail and her children were last seen at Ala Wai Boat Harbor to take the trip with a man she met online. Local authorities said Bernstein led a nomadic lifestyle and lived off the grid somewhere in Hawaii.
Officials also confirmed the boys were not enrolled in school and Abigail cut off contact with her family and cut her cell phone service before they departed.
“Because two minors are involved, we have an interest in protecting and are working with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the Missing Child Center at Hawaii in locating them and ensuring their safety,” said Steven Merrill, FBI Agent in Charge. “While we are concerned for their welfare and whereabouts, we have no evidence of foul play, but have not ruled that out.”
Abigail has ties with Hawaii Island, Kauai and Maui. She also has a history of contacts in California, Florida, Michigan, North Carolina and Pennsylvania.
“Public assistance is crucial in locating this family as we are all concerned about their health and safety,” Merrill added.
If you have any information on the Bernsteins and their whereabouts, the FBI asks you to contact the FBI Honolulu Field Office at (808) 673-2719, the FBI Tip Line at 1 (800) CALL-FBI or submit a tip online.