Columbia police begin criminal investigation into missing woman case

COLUMBIA - Columbia police say they are now opening a criminal investigation into the disappearance of Mengqi Ji Elledge, who was reported as missing on Wednesday, Oct. 10.

Elledge was reported missing by her husband the next day.

Detectives say they now suspect foul play in her disappearance.

Missouri State Highway Patrol searched two ponds behind Elledge's apartment on Oct. 17, but troopers say nothing of interest was found.

This is an active and ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information regarding the disappearance of Elledge should immediately contact the Columbia Police Department.