UPDATE: Search for missing Columbia woman, Mengqi Ji Elledge

On October 10, Joseph Elledge reported his wife, Mengqi Ji Elledge, missing. Columbia Police, with assistance from multiple agencies, have been following a number of leads after it was believed that Mengqi's disappearance was due to foul play.

During an interview with detectives shortly after reporting his wife missing, Joseph Elledge told detectives he had driven around rural areas of surrounding counties.

From this information, Columbia Police detectives were able to narrow down a specific area, which was determined to be a location of interest that needed further exploration.

Today, with assistance from multiple agencies including the Mid-Missouri Sheriff's Dive Team, a section of the Lamine River in mid-Missouri was searched. Although the search did not lead to finding Mengqi, detectives and search teams will explore conducting additional searches next week.

There is no additional information which can be shared to protect the integrity of the investigation.

Columbia Police continue to ask hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to be vigilant in rural areas of Boone and surrounding counties. If anyone has information regarding this case, please call Columbia Police at 573-874-7652, or CrimeStoppers at 573-875-TIPS to remain anonymous.

Case number: 2019-010707