"A Mystery"
Toxins Ruled Out in Jerusalem Daycare Disaster; Investigators Focus on Overheating
Investigation Update: Toxins have been ruled out in the Jerusalem daycare disaster. Police are now investigating if an overheated, unventilated room caused the deaths of two infants. 43 children remain hospitalized.
The investigation into the tragic deaths of two infants at a Jerusalem daycare has taken a complex turn, with authorities describing the cause as a "mystery" after initial toxicology reports came back negative.
Despite early fears of a gas leak or poisoning, specialized tests conducted by Fire and Rescue services at the scene found no trace of hazardous substances. Furthermore, blood tests performed on the surviving toddlers at Jerusalem hospitals revealed no abnormal findings.
With the hazardous materials theory effectively ruled out, investigators are now focusing on the physical conditions inside the room where the infants were sleeping.
A primary line of inquiry suggests that an air conditioner was operating on a high heat setting in a completely sealed room with no ventilation. Authorities suspect that this combination may have depleted the oxygen levels or caused fatal heatstroke, leading to the deaths of the two infants and the injury of dozens more.
The Ministry of Environmental Protection issued an official statement Monday evening to dispel rumors circulating online. "Following unfounded rumors... the Ministry clarifies that tests carried out at the kindergarten in the Romema neighborhood have ruled out the suspicion of a hazardous materials event," the statement read.
Hadassah Medical Center reported that 43 children have been admitted to its Ein Kerem and Mount Scopus campuses.
All children are currently in mild and stable condition, fully conscious. The hospital announced that all infants will remain hospitalized overnight for close observation as a precaution.
Prof. Yoram Weiss, CEO of Hadassah, described the hospital's response to the Mass Casualty Event (MCE):
"Upon realizing the magnitude of the event, trauma units were reinforced with experts in pediatrics, emergency medicine, toxicology, and intensive care. Social work teams have been supporting the parents and surrounding the babies with warmth and care."
Jerusalem District Commander Avshalom Peled addressed the ongoing investigation, acknowledging the tension between the need for answers and religious sensitivities regarding burial.
"This is a very unfortunate case, and our hearts go out to the families," Peled said. "Currently, our goal is to reach the truth... while showing great sensitivity to the families to allow them to bring their loved ones to burial as soon as possible."