Rescue efforts underway
Haredi Teen Swept Away in Flash Flood, Rescue Teams Race Against Time
Massive search and rescue operation underway as specialized units race against time along swollen waterway
Large-scale firefighting and rescue forces are conducting intensive searches this afternoon (Tuesday) for a teenage boy who, according to witnesses, was swept away by the powerful current of Modi'in Stream, located near the outskirts of the city.
The incident began when emergency services received a report about two teenagers in serious distress within the raging stream waters after being swept away by a sudden flash flood in the wadi. According to witness accounts from the scene, one of the teens managed through extraordinary efforts to pull himself from the current and reach the bank, but his friend disappeared from sight within the stream channel.
The teen who rescued himself told rescue forces that his friend tried with all his strength to fight the current and exit the water, but the forces of nature overcame him and he was swept away.
Police reported that officers from the Judea and Samaria District's Modi'in Illit station are currently operating following a report of a boy approximately 16 years old who fell into Modi'in Stream and is missing. Upon receiving the report, police forces, rescue units, IDF forces, and a helicopter from the Israel Police Air Unit were dispatched to the scene for searches and locating the teen.
Magen David Adom (MDA) reported that at 3:07 PM, a call was received at MDA's 101 emergency center in the Ayalon region about two young people swept away in a stream near Modi'in Illit. MDA paramedics reported that a young man approximately 20 years old was rescued from the stream and did not require medical treatment. MDA teams are providing medical backup for the searches for the second youth who was swept away by the current.
Firefighting and rescue teams from the Benjamin region were dispatched and began extensive searches along the stream banks and through the brush. Due to the complexity of the terrain and the immediate danger, additional reinforcement forces were called from the Judea and Samaria District, as well as fighters from the 'Lahav' unit – the national unit for special rescues, which specializes in rescuing people from difficult terrain.
Security and rescue forces emphasize that water flow in Modi'in Stream is particularly strong following recent rains, making search operations more difficult. Security forces are calling on the general public to stay away from stream channels and flood areas, which pose an immediate life-threatening danger.
