Toronto Police announced Thursday that b’chasdei Hashem, Esther, the 14-year-old Jewish girl who had been missing for 11 days, has been located and is safe.

Officers from the Toronto Police Service confirmed her recovery and said more details would be provided at a Command Post in Earl Bales Park at 3 p.m.

The news brought an outpouring of gratitude from the Toronto Jewish community and beyond, which had been gripped with worry since Esther — who may also answer to Esti or Sylvia — disappeared on May 16 from the Bathurst Street and Hotspur Road area.

Esther’s father released an audio message after she was discovered. “I want to thank everybody who has been instrumental in finding my daughter, for all the support that every single person has given us during this difficult time,” he said. ” I am extremely emotional and ecstatic to have the information that my daughter has been found. My wife and I appreciate you all.”

In the days following her disappearance, thousands of volunteers mobilized to distribute missing persons posters and assist in the search. The effort was marked by an unsettling development when posters were repeatedly torn down, prompting outrage from the family and supporters. “When a family is desperately trying to find their child, this kind of behavior should concern every person in our city,” said family spokesperson Maureen Leshem. “Helping bring a missing child home safely should never be political or controversial.”

A group of multi-faith Toronto residents had posted a $25,000 reward for information leading to Esther’s return, reflecting the broad community solidarity that the case inspired.

Earlier this week, Esther’s mother, Shira, had addressed her daughter directly at a press briefing, urging her to come home. “Esti, my love, if you are watching this, please come home. We love you so very much. We miss you terribly. Your family, here, across the country, and around the world, are searching and praying for you every minute,” she said.