2 Charged After 4-Year-Old Dies From Fentanyl Poisoning in Brooklyn

Federal authorities say the boy was in the apartment with his father and the father's girlfriend when he was exposed to fentanyl.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 4:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Federal authorities have charged two people, Yitzchok Sklar and Ahuva Katzin, in the fentanyl poisoning death of Sklar's 4-year-old son in Brooklyn in March 2025. Sklar was caught on surveillance video allegedly leaving the apartment with a bag containing fentanyl and heroin after the boy experienced a medical emergency.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of the opioid crisis, particularly the dangers of fentanyl exposure, and the urgent need for greater prevention, education, and support services to protect vulnerable children from accidental overdoses.

The details

According to authorities, Sklar's 4-year-old son was in the apartment with Sklar and Katzin when he was exposed to fentanyl. After 911 was called, Sklar was caught on surveillance video allegedly leaving the apartment with a black bag and then returning without it. The bag was later found by law enforcement in a nearby car and contained fentanyl and heroin. Sklar and Katzin have now been hit with federal charges of conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison.

  • In March 2025, Sklar's 4-year-old son died from fentanyl exposure.
  • On Tuesday, Sklar and Katzin were charged with federal crimes.

The players

Yitzchok Sklar

The father of the 4-year-old boy who died from fentanyl poisoning.

Ahuva Katzin

Sklar's girlfriend who was present in the apartment when the 4-year-old boy was exposed to fentanyl.

Miriam Elkayam

The boy's mother, who was previously charged along with Sklar with abandonment of a child and criminal possession of a controlled substance in state court.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on the bail and sentencing for Sklar and Katzin.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking case underscores the critical importance of addressing the opioid epidemic and ensuring the safety of children, as well as the need for stronger measures to prevent accidental fentanyl exposure and overdoses.