Florida Chaplain: 35 Jews Among the 99 Still Unaccounted For

After making contact with local synagogues and authorities, according to Police Chaplain Mark Rosenberg, it is estimated that 35 Jews are among the 99 people still unaccounted for in the partial collapse of a condo building in Surfside, Florida.

Rosenberg told the Journal that the situation is dire because the primary parts of the building that collapsed contained the bedrooms. The cause of the collapse is currently unknown, although work reportedly was being done to the building’s roof.

Rosenberg told the Journal that the situation is dire because the primary parts of the building that collapsed contained the bedrooms.

Various Jewish groups have offered condolences as well as efforts to provide aid to those afflicted.

“This tragedy has impacted many in the #Miami Jewish community and the @ADL
family,” Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt tweeted. “We pray for those lost, and that all those missing will soon be rescued and reunited with their loved ones.”

This tragedy has impacted many in the #Miami Jewish community and the @ADL family. We pray for those lost, and that all those missing will soon be rescued and reunited with their loved ones. https://t.co/2FMENpycq2

— Jonathan Greenblatt (@JGreenblattADL) June 24, 2021

“AJC is saddened by the devastating building collapse in Surfside, Miami,” the American Jewish Committee similarly tweeted. “Our hearts are with the people of Miami at this difficult time and we extend our condolences to all those affected by this tragic event.”

AJC is saddened by the devastating building collapse in Surfside, Miami.

Our hearts are with the people of Miami at this difficult time and we extend our condolences to all those affected by this tragic event. https://t.co/3nwMMSlalx

— American Jewish Committee (@AJCGlobal) June 24, 2021

The Greater Miami Jewish Federation and the Shul of Bal Harbour both have started campaigns to raise funds for those afflicted. Additionally, United Hatzalah of Israel is sending a delegation to Florida to provide aid to the community.

“I am sending my best people on this mission in order to provide as much help as we can,” United Hatzalah President and Founder Eli Beer said in a statement. “We stand with you and we are sending you the best of the best to help. They will be there as soon as regulations permit us to arrive.”

This is a developing story.