Rabbi Lipskar's Heroic Calls Mobilize Rescue Efforts After Condo Collapse

Surfside, Florida, USA - On June 26, 2021, within a mere 48 hours of the catastrophic collapse of the Champlain Towers in Surfside, Florida, a group of dedicated Hatzalah members, including Eli Schochet, sprang into action. They provided critical emergency medical support to survivors, demonstrating the strength of community in times of crisis. As Shabbat fell, the group made their way to Ground Zero, where the overwhelming silence was punctuated by the visible exhaustion of first responders and firefighters who were tirelessly working to rescue those trapped beneath the rubble, an atmosphere described as both chaotic and heavy with emotion, as highlighted by COLlive.

Arriving at the site, they were confronted with a scene that begged for more resources and action. A nurse’s exasperation with the apparent inaction there spurred conversations with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue personnel, who echoed the sentiment of urgency, advocating for “sounding the alarm” to secure better access for rescuers. However, the group faced roadblocks in their attempts to escalate the matter, as they were repeatedly told nothing could be done. In a moment of realization, Eli Schochet thought to involve his uncle, Rabbi Sholom DovBer Lipskar, founder of The Shul of Bal Harbour.

Mobilizing a Response

Rabbi Lipskar’s commitment to saving lives (pikuach nefesh) took precedence over Shabbat observance. Upon his arrival at the site, after listening to the group’s concerns, he insisted on heading straight to Ground Zero. Initially stopped by officials, Rabbi Lipskar’s resolve saw him engage directly with a ranking officer, seeking actionable solutions rather than mere protocol. His next steps were pivotal: he made three urgent calls to prominent figures, including Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. These calls were instrumental in mobilizing assistance that would ultimately aid in the crisis response, leading to the deployment of the Israeli search and rescue team, vital in the ongoing search operations for survivors.

As highlighted by CNN, the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue District Chief, Jason Richard, oversaw the rescue efforts at this tragic site, where structural engineers were methodically assessing safe areas for entry. Rescuers could be seen at work on the top of the rubble, attempting to locate individuals who were still alive, all the while facing severe conditions in the parking garage riddled with debris and hazardous fumes.

The Search Efforts

The urgency of the situation was palpable, as search teams relied on canine units from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and other specialized resources. Activities included careful listening and noting any cries for help, complemented by innovative uses of technology, such as bore cameras that allowed teams to peer into concrete cavities. Despite the „pancake“ collapse, which often complicates such operations, rescuers discovered voids created by fallen slabs, giving them hope for finding trapped victims. Efforts often had to pause so that responders could listen intently for signs of life, illustrating the critical nature of these precarious searches.

The National Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Response System, established by FEMA, encapsulates the organized response efforts during such emergencies. It comprises 28 task forces on standby, ready to be deployed within hours, with capabilities ranging from physical rescue operations to damage assessment. These highly trained teams are often pre-positioned in anticipation of disasters, underscoring a proactive approach to salvaging lives and property in situations like the Surfside collapse.

As we reflect on this poignant moment, Rabbi Lipskar’s leadership and commitment shine brightly, embodying a spirit of solidarity and determination that transcends boundaries. His passing on 5 Iyar leaves a legacy not only within his community but in the hearts of all those he inspired during one of Florida’s most challenging crises. In the words of Eli Schochet, “we called upon those values during our time of need,” reminding us all that in the face of adversity, there’s always a light that shines through the darkness.