A young girl last seen on Thursday in Fremont has been found dead at a recycling facility in San Jose, police said.
3-year-old Ellie Lorenzo was last seen about 6 p.m. on Thursday at the Casa Arroyo Apartments on Rancho Arroyo Parkway in Fremont, police said.
The girl was with her father under a custody agreement, the Fremont Police Department said.
Her biological mother Chrystal Obi reported the child missing about 12:25 p.m. Friday after she learned that the father was found dead in a nearby city, police said.
Following FPD's confirmation of Lorenzo's death, Obi issued a statement thanking the community for its support.
"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."
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Obi told police that the father was to have returned Ellie to her Friday night.
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Police have not confirmed how the father died.
