The search continues for Esther “Esti,” a Jewish teenager who disappeared about a week and a half ago in Toronto.
Over the weekend, police released a new image of the girl, apparently captured by a security camera on the evening she vanished. Toronto police investigators, along with her family, have expressed concern for her well-being, while searches are being conducted at the highest level.
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Police released a new photo of Esther, taken by a security camera on the night she disappeared
(Photo: Toronto Police)
Esther was last seen Friday, May 15, at Earl Bales Park in the city. Some time later, she was seen near a highway, moving northeast. Police, along with hundreds of volunteers and with the assistance of a helicopter, have been searching for her since. According to the description released, she was wearing a green long-sleeved shirt, gray sweatpants and no shoes.
Speaking to reporters, Shira, Esther’s mother, described her daughter as someone who was always willing to go “above and beyond” to help others. Esther’s father stood beside her. “I’m afraid she’ll be too naive and trust people who don’t mean well,” the mother said. “It’s really, really concerning.”
In an interview Friday on CBC’s Metro Morning radio program, relative Loli Herman said Esther’s parents and relatives are deeply worried and hope to see her soon. “We want Esti home. She has been missing for too long,” Herman said.
Herman said the family is urging people in the community to check security cameras and recording devices, backyards and even storage sheds for any sign of Esther. “Even the smallest lead could bring her home,” she said. “Please, please, please — keep looking. We have to bring her home, and we are working day and night to make that happen.”
The relative described Esther as a very sociable, open and resourceful teenager. She noted that people who do not know her may find it difficult to understand that she has been diagnosed on the autism spectrum. “She seems very social, very intelligent,” Herman said.
She said the family has been so focused on searching for Esther that they have not had a moment to stop and appreciate the “amazing” response and support from the community. Many people have come to help at command centers, go door to door and distribute flyers, she said.
Shomrim Toronto, which is assisting in the search, said it had received special permission to continue searches during the holiday and on Shabbat. “We wish to express our deep gratitude to the volunteers who have dedicated hundreds of hours to the search for Esti. We remain fully committed to maximizing our efforts to ensure her safe return,” the organization said.
“Following the latest update from Toronto police, and in addition to rabbinic guidance, search operations are continuing at full force. Accordingly, Shomrim will continue its activity during the Shavuot holiday. The Shomrim emergency line remains active, and any urgent information received will be handled immediately.”