The Ottawa Police Service's major crime section is now investigating the late September disappearance of an 11-year-old girl.

Nakayla Baskin has been missing since Sept. 25, after packing a bag and leaving her home in the Carlington neighbourhood at about 12:30 a.m.

On Saturday, police released a still photo from a surveillance video showing a car they believe may be involved in Baskin's disappearance.

The Ottawa Police Service released this image on Oct. 6, 2018, of a car that could be connected to the disappearance of 11-year-old Nakayla Baskin. Baskin was last seen in late September. (Ottawa Police Service)

Investigators want to speak to the driver of the vehicle, whom police believe may have important information about the case.

Police have described Baskin as white, five-feet-four-inches tall, and weighing about 150 pounds. She has light brown or blondish shoulder-length hair and grey eyes, and was likely carrying a red purse with her when she left home.

Police have also said she could be mistaken for someone as old as 16 or 18.

Ottawa police say Nakayla Baskin, 11, may look as old as 18. (Ottawa Police Service)

New evidence

The investigation into Baskin's disappearance has become "very complex," said Staff Sgt. Bruce Pirt with the major crime section.

The unit took over the case after new evidence came forward, although Pirt wouldn't say Sunday what that evidence was.

Nor would he say if investigators had any leads.

We need the eyes and ears of the people of Ottawa to help us out. - Staff Sgt. Bruce Pirt

"It is just the right time for us to step in and start to work the case," said Pirt. "It has been worked very hard up to this point, and it will continue to be worked very hard."

Pirt said the vehicle was last seen in the city's west end and appears to be a 2008 to 2012 Honda Civic.

He said the investigation was focusing mostly on Ottawa, but police had reached out to "the big cities around us."

He also urged residents to share any tips they might have.

"It's important that we get the community's involvement in this," Pirt said. "We need the eyes and ears of the people of Ottawa to help us out."

Ottawa police Staff Sgt. Bruce Pirt says Nakayla Baskin's disappearance is a very complex investigation. 1:10

'Very vulnerable'

Earlier this week, Supt. Chris Renwick said police had "no strong evidence" of foul play but that Baskin was nevertheless "very, very vulnerable."

Baskin usually lives with her grandmother, father and uncle. Her family is co-operating with the investigation and has also been searching for her.

Renwick said she's left home before, but not without contacting family members.

Anyone with information about her disappearance or the vehicle captured by the surveillance camera can call the major crime section at 613-236-1222, ext. 5493.