Kayaker who faked his death no-shows in court after bid to destroy evidence
A judge dismissed the motion after Ryan Borgwardt failed to show up in court for the scheduled hearing on Tuesday. More
February 4, 2026
Ryan Borgwardt
Ryan Borgwardt admitted to faking his own drowning and leaving his wife and children to go to Eastern Europe.
WI kayaker who faked his own death, fled to Europe released from jail
Ryan Borgwardt, a kayaker who faked his own death and fled to Europe to be with another woman, has been released from jail. More
December 9, 2025
New details revealed in case of kayaker who faked his death
In the interview with detectives, Ryan Borgwardt said he would like to return to his lover in Georgia because the cost of living is so much cheaper. More
September 10, 2025
WI man who faked drowning, fled country sentenced to 89 days in jail
UPDATE: Ryan Borgwardt, the WI man who faked his own drowning and fled the country, was sentenced to 89 days jail. More
August 27, 2025
Kayaker accused of faking death, fleeing country, to represent himself
The sheriff said his office has recommended a number of charges against Ryan Borgwardt, who is going to represent himself. More
December 11, 2024
Missing kayaker ‘alive and well’ overseas; sheriff pleas for his return
Ryan Borgwardt, who police say faked his own drowning death and abandoned his family, delivered a video message from an undisclosed location. More
November 25, 2024