Elite Counter-Terrorism Officer Found Dead After Freediving Incident

First Sergeant Itay Parson, a 23-year-old officer with the elite Yamam counter-terrorism unit, was found dead on Saturday after a three-day intensive search following a freediving incident off the coast of Haifa. Parson, a resident of Haifa, entered the water on Thursday for a solo freedive at Students Beach and did not return. His uncle, who was on a kayak about 1.3 kilometers offshore, alerted rescue forces when Parson failed to surface.

The search, which involved hundreds of police officers, soldiers, volunteers, and naval units including Shayetet 13 and the Underwater Missions Unit, utilized drones, a police helicopter, boats, jet skis, horses, and dogs. Police Commissioner Danny Levi also visited the search site. The search was suspended Thursday night and resumed Friday morning, continuing until Parson's body was discovered on the seabed approximately 800 meters from the shore on Saturday. The circumstances of the drowning remain unclear.

Parson, who was scheduled to be released from police service soon after extending his service into a permanent position in December 2025, had a distinguished service record. He initially joined a flight course in January 2023 before transferring to mandatory service in the Border Police (Magav) in August of the same year. He completed commando training and was assigned to the Yamam's observation and drone team.

Friends and educators remembered Parson as a charismatic, talented, and dedicated individual, known for his good advice and helpful nature. He had previously participated in the "Ninja Israel" competition, where he sustained a shoulder injury. His former principal described him as "a people's person" with a good smile, who was sensitive, empathetic, and excelled academically.

Parson is survived by his parents, Judge Rona Parson and Dr. Alex Parson, four siblings, and his partner Nicole. He was due to celebrate his 24th birthday in three months. His funeral is scheduled to take place on Sunday at the military cemetery in Haifa.