Toronto Police Escalate Search for Missing Teen Esther to Highest Alert Level

Police have raised serious concerns for the safety of 14-year-old Esther, who vanished in Toronto on May 16, 2026. The search for her has now been escalated to a Level 1 operation—the highest possible classification. Authorities released an updated photo of the missing girl, taken just days before her disappearance. Esther was last seen near Bathurst Street and Hotspur Road. She was wearing grey sweatpants, a turquoise sweater, and no shoes at the time. Described as white, 5 feet 2 inches tall, with a medium build and brown hair, she has not been found since.

To assist the investigation, police have launched a dedicated website for public tips. This move follows the rare decision to classify the case as Level 1—a designation given to only five of nearly 3,100 missing person reports in 2025. The alert was first issued on May 24, 2026, as authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward.

The search for Esther remains active, with police focusing on gathering leads through the new website. Her disappearance has triggered an unusually high-level response, reflecting growing concerns. The public is being asked to check the updated photo and report any sightings immediately.