The Northfield Police Department is asking for help in the search for 6-year-old Elle Ragin after a disturbing discovery at her
home.
On Saturday morning, Northfield police were called to a residence in the 600 block of Maple Brook Court, the home Elle shared with her mother, 39-year-old Lisa Wade. Upon entry, they discovered Wade’s body, the victim of an apparent suicide. Police have reason to believe that Wade may have been involved in Elle’s disappearance before taking her own life.
Police are actively investigating this case and are asking for the public’s assistance in locating 6-year-old Elle Ragin. They are asking anyone who has seen Elle Ragin or her mom Lisa Wade in the past two weeks or might have any knowledge about Elle’s whereabouts to call the Northfield Police Department at 507-645-4477 and share that information.
Northfield Chief of Police Mark Elliott said Wade’s body was discovered after a welfare check was requested by an extended family member. Neither Wade nor her daughter had been heard from over the last two weeks, which is why the police are asking for help within that time frame.
He said the area has been searched using dogs, drones, search and rescue teams, and helicopters. Officers canvassed the neighborhood as well, going door-to-door asking if neighbors had any information. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension are both assisting with the investigation.
Elliott indicated that an Amber Alert was not issued because at this time there is neither a suspect nor is there a vehicle identified in the search. He said, while they are asking for help from the public if there is any new information, there is no need for volunteers for physical searches at this time.
