Police intensify search for missing 78‑year‑old man last seen kayaking on Humber River

Toronto police are intensifying their search for 78-year-old David, who has been missing since last Thursday, September 10th, after being last seen kayaking on the Humber River. The man was initially reported missing on Friday, September 11th, 2026, by his family, who discovered he had gone missing. Police have not classified the case as a Level 1 search, indicating it is not currently a top priority.

David is described as being 5-foot-8 inches tall, with black and grey hair and a thin chinstrap beard. He was last seen wearing a red shirt, black and red vest, black pants, and black shoes. Following the investigation, officers traced David's abandoned vehicle to the Humber River, which prompted a significant expansion in the search effort.

A witness reported seeing David launch an inflatable kayak on September 10th. Since then, David has not been seen, and neither the kayak nor any related items have been recovered. The search, which began on September 15th, has involved the Toronto Police Service Marine Unit, Peel's Marine Unit, and drone teams combing the river north and south for eight days.

Police believe that David lives alone and that this may be the reason why his disappearance was initially not reported. They are urging the public's assistance in locating David, particularly anyone who may have seen him or the kayak on September 10th or afterward. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3300.