A four-year-old boy has died under suspicious circumstances at a women’s shelter located on Glenwood Road in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. Authorities are currently investigating the potential involvement of fentanyl in his death, although official test results are still pending.

Details Surrounding the Incident

On Tuesday, emergency responders found the boy unresponsive, and it was reported that he displayed symptoms indicative of a possible overdose upon their arrival. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) administered Narcan before transporting him to Maimonides Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

In connection to the incident, both parents, identified as Miriam Elkayam, age 26, and Yitzchok Sklar, age 32, have been charged with abandonment of a child and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Reports indicate that drug paraphernalia was discovered at the shelter, leading investigators to probe into fentanyl exposure.

Despite the shelter’s primary focus on providing refuge and support for women and children, it has been noted that visitation from husbands during daytime hours is permitted at the “Women In Need” shelter.

Official Statements and Community Response

A representative from WIN (Women In Need), the organization managing the shelter, expressed their devastation regarding the child’s death. They stated, “WIN is devastated by the tragic death of this innocent child who came to reside with us in one of our shelters. We are working closely with the NYPD to support their ongoing investigation. We remain committed as ever to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all families that call a WIN shelter home.”

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into the boy’s death is still active. While officials acknowledge that first responders may have encountered signs of an overdose, the exact cause of death has not yet been determined, leaving many critical questions unresolved.