Boy, 10, Dies After Explosion From Burning Trash Can in Beitar Illit

A 10-year-old boy, Eliyahu Azriel, died Wednesday after being struck by an object that flew from a burning recycling bin in Beitar Illit. The incident occurred on Nadborna Street in the afternoon, shortly after Eliyahu had left his Talmud Torah studies. A fire broke out in the recycling bin, and during the event, an explosion occurred. An object was propelled from the bin, hitting Eliyahu. Investigators are examining the possibility that a container was thrown into the bin, which then exploded due to the heat, causing the object to be ejected. Some reports suggest the incident may have begun during a children's game where the bin was ignited and a container was thrown inside. Firefighters emphasized that the exact cause of the explosion has not yet been determined. Fire and Rescue Services reported that during firefighting operations, an explosion of an undetermined origin occurred, leading to the object striking the child. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze, extinguish it, and scan the area for further hazards. Lior Ben Lulu, commander of the shift, described the incident as "very difficult," noting that upon arrival, the child was injured and receiving medical attention. Paramedic Yinon Bar Nachman stated that upon arrival, the boy was found unconscious with no pulse or respiration, suffering from severe injuries and burns. Lifesaving treatment was administered, including efforts to stop bleeding, CPR, ventilation, and medication. Eliyahu Azriel, the eighth of ten siblings, was laid to rest in Jerusalem on Wednesday evening.