Minnesota police have begun a desperate search for a 6-year-old girl who is missing due to her mother's apparent suicide over the weekend.
The body of Lisa Wade, 39, was found at her home in Rice County by police around noon on Saturday. However, the young female daughter, El Ragin, was not found anywhere.
Authorities believe that Wade's death (which he said was her self-harm) was related to El's disappearance.
"There is reason to believe that Wade may have been involved in El's disappearance before taking her life," the Rice County Security Officer's office said in a statement.
Investigators had not found the girl as of Sunday night.
"Authorities are processing homes and Wade cars for clues, and a team of dogs, drones, and state patrol helicopters surveyed the area with negative results. "The security officer's office said.
The office has released a photo and a description of the girl in the hope of identifying her whereabouts.
Ell is about 3 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 45 pounds. She has brown eyes and curly brown hair, as explained by her security officer.
Two of the photos shared by the Security Officer Office show Elle smiling with Wade. This image shows a duo of her mother and daughter in matching costumes as Wade illuminates her young daughter lovingly.
In another example, a little Elle is laughing loudly at the camera. Her hair has a crown of flowers and bright red vines.
"Police are actively investigating this case and are seeking public support," the security officer's office said.
Investigators have asked anyone who has seen El or Wade in the last two weeks to call the Northfield Police (507-645-4477).
The FBI Minneapolis Field Office and the Criminal Arrest Bureau are assisting local law enforcement agencies in investigating.
If you are suffering from suicide thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free. Get secret crisis counseling. If you live outside the 5 wards, dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1-800-273-8255 or Visit theSuicidePreventionLifeline. org.
