Man with Mental Health Issues Shot Dead by Border Police After Attack

A resident of Umm al-Fahm, identified by his family as suffering from mental health issues, was killed Thursday by Border Police gunfire following a police chase that included a car accident. The deceased, Alaa Mahamid, had a history of psychiatric treatment, having been previously hospitalized at the Sha'ar Menashe Mental Health Center. Authorities suspect Mahamid was apprehended and handcuffed, but managed to get into his vehicle and escape. During a subsequent pursuit, police claim Mahamid attacked an officer after being stopped again. The officer, fearing for his life, opened fire, hitting Mahamid. A medical team later pronounced him dead.

According to the police, Border Police motorcycle officers operating in the Umm al-Fahm area noticed a suspicious vehicle on Highway 65. The driver, later identified as Mahamid, allegedly failed to stop when ordered and fled. Police stated that Mahamid's behavior in his vehicle raised the officers' suspicions. When an officer approached the car, Mahamid reportedly exited, lunged at the officer, and began to assault him, leading to the shooting.