ROSEVILLE (WWJ) — The investigation into the disappearance of Ashley Elkins, a 30-year-old Warren mother of two, continued Tuesday evening as there was a large police presence outside her ex-boyfriend’s apartment.
Elkins's family members say she hasn't been seen since Tuesday, Jan. 2, and that an investigation revealed her cell phone last pinged at her ex-boyfriend's apartment in Roseville.
That's where the investigation was focused late Tuesday afternoon into the evening as there was crime scene tape and a heavy police presence outside the Hampton Court Apartments off Pinehurst Street, near I-696 and Gratiot.
While the Warren Police Department was said to be taking the lead on the investigation, there were also Roseville police and Michigan State Police personnel at the scene, including a forensic crime lab.
WWJ Newsradio 950's Darrylin Horne reported from the scene that police had not released any new information about the investigation, as of 6 p.m.
Her current boyfriend told Horne Tuesday at the scene that the ex-boyfriend tried to make a hair appointment with her on New Year's Eve, but she didn't answer the door when he showed up.
He said he spent the night and all of New Year's Day with his girlfriend, but the next day, she disappeared.
"She did not want contact with that man. I don't think she left voluntarily," he said. "I think he was stalking her and hid in the bush or back seat or something like that."
Horne reported police entered the apartment earlier Tuesday, but had not come out, as of 6 p.m.
Elkins's uncle, attorney Maurice Morton, told WWJ on Monday night he is imploring the police department to take this case seriously.
"Don't treat this as just, you know, a possible young lady who walked away from her children — because she would not do that. She loves her family, she loves her children," Morton said. "Treat this as a possible abduction or missing person, and I feel that they're doing that."
Elkins is described as a Black female, 5-foot-2, around 160 lbs. with a medium build, brown eyes and her black hair in braids. She was last seen wearing all black clothing, including black Crocs shoes.
Morton said Elkins' car is also missing: a gray 2009 Chevy Malibu, with a crack on the passenger's side, and no license plate.
The Warren PD said previously investigators had canvassed area businesses for video and are using digital forensics to help determine Elkins’ whereabouts.
Morton is calling on anyone in the community who may have seen her to please speak up.
"You know, reach out to the police department: Warren Police, Detroit Police, Roseville Police — any information. Just be on the lookout," Morton said.
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The Warren PD, taking the lead on this case, can be reached at 586-574-4784. To remain 100% anonymous, tipsters can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak Up (800-773-2587), or submit information online at this link.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 for the latest updates as they become available. >>> LISTEN LIVE!