A missing California toddler, last seen Thursday in Fremont, was found deceased at a recycling facility, according to police.
Ellie Lorenzo, 3, was last seen alive Thursday around 6 p.m. at the Casa Arroyo Apartments on Rancho Arroyo Parkway in Fremont, NBC Bay Area reported.
On Saturday, Ellie’s body was found at a recycling plant in San Jose.
The Fremont Police Department posted, “It is with a heavy heart we report this morning, Saturday, July 13, 2024, we were contacted by the San Jose Police Department regarding the investigation into Ellie Lorenzo. Tragically, a juvenile female resembling Ellie was located deceased in their city.”
Chrystal Obi reported her daughter missing around 12:25 p.m. on Friday.
Press Release: Missing Child Ellie Lorenzo
Today (July 12, 2024), at about 12:25 p.m., Fremont Police Department received a missing person’s report of a 3-year-old female from the child’s biological mother. According to the information received from the mother, the child was… pic.twitter.com/WHlxuUgGWj
— Fremont Police Department (@FremontPD) July 13, 2024
“According to the information received from the mother, the child was supposed to be returned, per a custody agreement, tonight,” the Fremont Police posted. “However, the mother was informed the child’s biological father was found deceased in a nearby city, and the child’s whereabouts are currently unknown.”
Obi released a statement to the community thanking them for their support after Ellie was found.
“We are heartbroken at the loss of our dear sweet Ellie,” Obi told NBC Bay Area.
“She was the most charming, funny, smart, friendly little girl. Ellie loved dancing and meeting new people. She so easily made friends and spread so much joy everywhere she went. She will be remembered for her smart and curious mind, her big smile, and her warm loving heart. Ellie’s life was full of so many people who loved her so much and will miss her beyond words can explain.”
The Fremont Police said the ongoing investigation has been turned over to the San Jose Police Department.
At this time, it is unknown how the father died. Check back for updates.
