The whereabouts of Esther, the 14-year-old girl who was missing for 13 days, have been resolved, but the circumstances surrounding her disappearance remain unclear. Toronto Police continue to investigate, though no charges have been laid as of Friday evening.
Investigation Status Unclear
On Friday, police initially stated that the investigation was closed and no charges would be filed. However, within an hour, they retracted that statement, confirming that the investigation is ongoing, even though no criminal charges have been brought forward so far.
Esther was found on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at a residence in Rexdale, after being spotted on security footage at a nearby plaza. Police conducted a rescue operation and took a man in his 20s or 30s into custody for questioning.
Homeowner's Account
The homeowner of the property where Esther was discovered told the Toronto Sun that he was not present when police arrived and removed the girl and his tenant. He stated that he did not see the teenager, who had been reported missing from North York on May 16.
Neighbors reported seeing police return the tenant to the apartment about an hour after he was initially taken away. The man, said to work in construction, has not been seen since.
Ongoing Questions
Many questions remain about the man's identity and why Esther was at the residence. It is still unknown whether a crime was committed. Esther is currently receiving medical assistance in hospital.
During her absence, she was sighted near Earl Bales Park, at Kennedy subway station, and at a Walmart in Rexdale. How she spent the majority of her time away from home remains a mystery.
Police have not provided further details, and the investigation continues.
