UMVA has learned that a 14-year-old girl who vanished without a trace has been located safe and sound after an intense search that gripped the city.
Esther was discovered Thursday afternoon at a residence in Rexdale, the northwestern corner of the city, bringing overwhelming relief to her family and community.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the teenage girl was found at a house with an adult male, though police confirm the situation remains fluid as investigators continue to process the discovery.
A police source revealed, "We found her at a house with some guy in Rexdale. He has a house so we can assume that he's an adult."
The circumstances surrounding Esther's disappearance and location are still unfolding, with authorities noting they haven't yet had an opportunity to speak directly with the adult male present at the scene.
Esther was last seen in the area of Bathurst St. and Hotspur Rd., south of Hwy. 401, in North York just after midnight on May 16.
Earlier Thursday, investigators believed the teen was still alive, a glimmer of hope that emerged after initial fears that she had fallen victim to sex traffickers.
The case took a dramatic turn when police shifted their approach, moving forward with "everything on the table" as the investigation evolved.
Esther's disappearance sparked outrage when antisemitic incidents erupted across the city, with posters featuring the missing teen being torn down from various locations.
Volunteers rallied en masse, putting up posters and conducting searches throughout the community while a $25,000 reward remained outstanding.
The autistic teen's safe return has now shifted focus toward understanding what transpired during those crucial days and ensuring appropriate support is provided moving forward.
