Toxic Methyl Bromide Gas Leak Sparks Emergency Response in Ramat Hasharon Residential Building

On Friday afternoon in Ramat Hasharon, a toxic gas leak triggered a large-scale emergency response involving firefighters, police, and medical teams. The hazardous substance, methyl bromide, commonly used in agricultural fumigation, was found leaking from a container located on the building's basement level minus two. Eyewitnesses reported a strong chemical odor and immediate symptoms such as eye burning, coughing, and irritation among residents, including children.

One resident, identified only as Hadar, described how she noticed the chemical smell upon entering the elevator and soon after her daughter began crying due to eye pain. The family quickly evacuated their apartment, joining many neighbors who were also affected. Emergency services arrived within minutes, closing off the street and deploying about ten emergency vehicles and dozens of responders. Some residents sheltered inside their homes during the incident.

Fire department spokesperson Guy Talem explained that the leak was likely caused by a child or teenager who moved or tampered with the container, causing the release of the gas. The regional hazardous materials unit sealed the container to stop the leak and conducted decontamination procedures for exposed personnel, including washing equipment and protective suits. Fortunately, no one required medical treatment following the incident.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the presence of the methyl bromide container in the residential building and the exact cause of the leak.