Esther’s recovery brings relief as investigators examine whether criminality surrounded her prolonged disappearance”
A major search for a missing 14-year-old Jewish girl in Toronto ended Thursday with her safe recovery after nearly two weeks of fear and uncertainty.
Toronto Police said the teenager, identified only as Esther, was found at around 1:00 p.m. inside a residential property in Etobicoke, in the city’s west end.
Superintendent Don Belanger said Esther appeared to be in good physical health, but was taken to hospital for a full medical assessment. He stressed that the investigation is not over and that police will now examine whether any criminal activity was connected to her prolonged disappearance.
Esther vanished shortly after midnight on May 16 in North York. Her disappearance triggered a rare Level One search operation, with police deploying mounted units, marine teams and aerial drones. Investigators had expressed deep concern for her safety, noting that she is on the autism spectrum.
The police effort was supported by a massive community response. Hundreds of volunteers from Toronto’s Jewish community searched neighborhoods, distributed flyers and helped operate an independent command center. A $25,000 reward was also offered for information leading to her safe return.
Belanger praised the community’s role, calling the effort remarkable and saying the case became a true partnership between police and residents. He said investigators reviewed extensive surveillance footage, which helped lead them to the Etobicoke home.
Police are now examining who lives at the residence and what circumstances brought Esther there.
The UJA Federation of Greater Toronto welcomed her safe recovery, saying the search showed the strength of community when people unite in urgency and care.
