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Missing Toronto teen Esther found safe in a home after nearly two weeks of extensive search
A 14-year-old Toronto girl who went missing on May 16th near Bathurst Street in North York has been found safe in a home in Toronto. Police are now investigating whether any criminality was involved in her prolonged disappearance. Volunteers had offered a $25,000 reward.
After nearly two weeks of an extensive search that gripped the city, Toronto police have confirmed that missing 14-year-old Esther has been found safe. The teenager was located in a home in Toronto and appears to be in good physical health, though she has been taken to hospital for both physical and emotional assessment.
Esther was last seen just after midnight on May 16th near Bathurst Street and Hotspur Road in North York. Her disappearance prompted a massive response from both police and the community, with officers setting up a command post at Earl Bales Park and creating a dedicated phone line to collect tips from the public.
Community volunteers played a significant role in the search effort, putting up posters across the city and offering a 25,000 dollar reward for information leading to her safe return. The case attracted widespread attention across Toronto and beyond, with regular updates drawing thousands of concerned citizens to follow the search.
Police stated that their investigation will now turn to determining whether any criminal activity was associated with the teenager's prolonged disappearance. Authorities did not disclose where specifically the home was located or who Esther was found with, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
The family shared a statement expressing immense relief following the news. They said there are no words to describe their feelings knowing their daughter has been found safe, adding that for the first time in days they can hug their daughter and breathe again. They noted that while the search is over, their daughter still needs proper medical care and support, CBC News reported.