Missing FX Producer Who Resurfaced In Mexico Says Addiction Caused 'Emotional And Physical Breakdown'

HOLLYWOOD (CBSLA.com) — Addiction caused a Hollywood visual effects producer to go missing last month before resurfacing nearly two weeks later in Mexico, according to a Sunday Facebook post.

"My name is Eric Kohler and I am an addict," he wrote. "The actions that led up to the events unfolding over these past few weeks are not my proudest moments. Addiction is a serious issue that I clearly recognize now.

"Through a state of exhaustion fueled by the stress and high expectations that were put on me, and the life I chose, my addiction escalated and I mentally snapped. This emotional and physical breakdown caused me to desert the people I care for and most importantly care for me," Kohler wrote, in part.

Kohler, 27, wrote that he is seeking professional treatment for his addiction, but did not elaborate.

The visual effects producer was reported missing after he failed to show up at home for Thanksgiving. He was last seen leaving work at Vitality Visual Effects in Gardena about 4 p.m. on Nov. 24 without his wallet, laptop or other personal belongings.

In a Dec. 4 statement that said Kohler had been located in La Paz, Mexico, Los Angeles Police Department said foul play was not suspected.

In his Facebook post, Kohler thanked those who got involved after he vanished.

"Words will never be able to fully articulate the gratitude and appreciation I have for everyone who got involved," Kohler wrote. "It's such a blessing to see how many people actually do care."

Kohler has worked on such blockbuster films as "The Pirates of the Caribbean" and "San Andreas."

(©2015 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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