San Jose Police Department officers located Ellie’s body at approximately 4:38 a.m., following a desperate search that gripped the community after her disappearance. Ellie was in the custody of her father, who tragically passed away in San Francisco the previous day. According to reports, Ellie’s mother had reported her missing when she failed to return as per their custody agreement on Friday. The last known sighting of Ellie was at Casa Arroyo Apartment on Rancho Arroyo Parkway in Fremont.
“Our department is saddened to learn Ellie has not survived,” stated Fremont Police Chief Sean Washington. “Our hearts are heavy for Ellie’s family, and we will continue to support them during this difficult time. I want to thank all the members of our department and allied agencies who worked tirelessly throughout the night to try to bring Ellie home safely. On behalf of our department and community, please keep everyone impacted by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers.”
At this moment, no further details regarding the circumstances of Ellie’s death have been released. Fremont PD detectives have met with their counterparts in San Jose to transition the investigation, which will now be led by San Jose PD as a homicide investigation.
The loss of young Ellie has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of support and sympathy for her family. As authorities continue their investigation into this heartbreaking case, the memory of Ellie Chinaza Obi Lorenzo will remain in the thoughts and prayers of all who were touched by her brief life
