Jerusalem Nursery Horror: Two Babies Pass Away, 53 Treated for Respiratory Problems
A severe tragedy struck a private nursery in Jerusalem on Monday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of two infants and the hospitalization of 53 others suffering from respiratory problems • Full Story
A severe tragedy struck a private nursery in Jerusalem on Monday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of two infants and the hospitalization of 53 others suffering from respiratory problems. Authorities reported that the incident was caused by the suspected release of a chemical from a heating device at the unlicensed nursery, located in a private complex on HaMagav Street in the Romema neighborhood.
The infants who passed away: Leah Tzipora Golbencitz OBM, 3.5 months old, and Aharon Katz OBM, 4 months old.
Hospital examinations confirmed that Aharon had arrived at the nursery for his first day that morning. His mother had left him with a caregiver she personally trusted for a brief period. Both children slept in separate rooms at the time of the incident. Their Levaya’s are expected to take place overnight following autopsy examinations at Abu Kabir Forensic Institute.
Emergency services from Jerusalem Fire and Rescue responded quickly. The Jerusalem District Commander, Commissioner Shmulik Friedman, ordered a special emergency team to investigate the unusual circumstances.
Authorities noted that carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless toxic gas, may have been involved, though the fire department confirmed that monitoring by their hazardous materials unit found no detectable levels of dangerous or toxic substances.
Three caregivers at the nursery were detained for questioning, and the Ministry of Education stated that the nursery was unknown to them and had never been licensed.
Paramedics from Magen David Adom described the scene as “a difficult incident,” recounting that they were called to treat the four-month-old infant who was found unconscious, without pulse or respiration. After initiating CPR and emergency care, the team was called back to respond to a second infant in the same condition. Emergency crews subsequently evacuated all 53 remaining children from the facility to local hospitals for treatment and monitoring.
Hadassah Ein Kerem and Shaare Zedek Medical Centers in Jerusalem confirmed that all hospitalized infants would remain under observation overnight. Toxicology tests performed on the children revealed no signs of poisoning.
Police and fire department officials continue to manage the scene, ensuring the area is secure and roadways remain open for emergency vehicles. Jerusalem District Commander, Commissioner Avshalom Peled, is overseeing the response and coordinating with all relevant authorities.
This tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the community. Authorities continue their investigation to determine the precise circumstances that led to this devastating event.






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