Durham police issue alert for Whitby youth; may be in Toronto
Durham Regional Police are asking for public assistance to locate a 13-year-old boy from Whitby who has been reported missing. Investigators say the youth, identified only as Zane, may have travelled beyond Whitby and could now be in Toronto. Police have not indicated whether he is with anyone and do not yet know if he is moving around on foot or using public transit.
According to the appeal, Zane is described as Black with a light complexion, has a heavy build and wears his hair in an afro style. At the time he was last seen, he was wearing a white and grey Essentials tracksuit with black running shoes and carrying a black Nike backpack. Police released these details to assist residents and transit users who may encounter him in Whitby, elsewhere in Durham Region, or in Toronto.
What to watch for
- Clothing: white and grey Essentials-brand tracksuit
- Footwear: black running shoes
- Accessories: black Nike backpack
- Physical description: Black, light complexion, heavy build, afro hairstyle
- Possible location: investigators believe he may be in Toronto
Police emphasized the uncertainty around his current mode of travel and whether he is accompanied. That uncertainty broadens the search beyond specific routes or times of day and underscores the need for residents to remain attentive across neighbourhoods, retail areas and public spaces where a young person might be seen.
How to contact police with information
Anyone who has seen Zane or who has information that could help locate him is asked to contact Durham Regional Police at 905-579-1520 ext. 1805. Sharing precise details such as the time, place and clothing observed can help investigators verify tips quickly.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | 13 |
| Complexion | Light |
| Build | Heavy |
| Hair | Afro style |
| Clothing | White and grey Essentials tracksuit |
| Shoes | Black running shoes |
| Backpack | Black Nike |
| Possible Whereabouts | Believed to be in Toronto |
| Contact | 905-579-1520 ext. 1805 |
The search continues as officers work to piece together movements and potential sightings. While the current advisory does not include a timeline or a specific last-known location, the clothing and backpack details remain central identifiers for anyone scanning crowds, transit platforms or retail settings in and around Whitby and Toronto.
Police routinely update missing-person advisories as new information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to follow official channels for any subsequent notices and to report observations that match the description above. Even partial information — such as a possible sighting of the backpack or tracksuit — can assist in narrowing the search and supporting investigators’ efforts.
