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Fire department hazardous materials units on Sunday morning 3 Adar-II responded to Dulchin Street in the Massua neighborhood of the capital amid reports of a burning sensation from many area residents. Firefighters dressed in protective suits approached the area and the decision was made to evacuate a number of buildings as the cause of the possibly toxic substance was unknown.

After operating on the scene hazmat teams located the source. It is explained the substance that was responsible for the foul odor and causing a burning sensation to many was spilled out near a tree on the street. Hazmat technicians diluted the substance sufficiently, bringing an end to the incident.

Fire officials explain that someone drilled holes in the bottom of the tree and poured acid, apparently to kill the tree. When the acid mixed with water from the irrigation system it released a burning fume that prompted people to phone and complain of irritation in their eyes and throat.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem / Photos: Jerusalem Fire & Rescue via Media Resource Group)