A couple in their 50s was found dead Tuesday morning in their Jerusalem apartment as a result of what appears to be toxic gas inhalation.
Jerusalem police launched an investigation, and believe the death was caused by an open gas valve. Though they have no reason to suspect foul play, police have not yet ruled out joint suicide as a cause of death.
According to the fire department, officials received a report early Tuesday that the couple wasn’t responding to phone calls or knocks on the door to their Romema, Jerusalem apartment. Emergency crews were rushed to the scene.
Officials simultaneously tracked down the source of the pungent gas smell, which seemed to be seeping out of an open tap. They evacuated the building until they could determine that the gas vents were safe for inhabitants to return to their homes.
Magen David Adom and paramedics declared the couple dead upon arrival. The Jerusalem police will continue the investigation.
