Teenager Killed in Hit-and-Run After Selichot Event in Hadera

A 17-year-old boy, Amihai Atia, was killed in Hadera early this morning after being struck by a vehicle during a confrontation. Atia, a resident of the settlement of Itamar and a student at the Hitzim Yeshiva, had attended a mass Selichot (penitential prayers) event organized by the Olga Yeshiva in cooperation with the Hadera municipality. While in the parking lot area of the "Mol Ha'Chof Village" shopping complex, a car driven by a resident of Kafr Mandi drove at high speed and hit Atia.

Atia sustained critical injuries and was evacuated to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center in Hadera, where he was pronounced dead. Initial police investigation suggests the incident began with a dispute between the involved parties, which escalated to the fatal collision and subsequent gunfire at the scene. The driver of the vehicle sustained minor injuries from the shooting and received medical treatment.

Amihai Atia, son of Sagith and Yona Atia, is survived by five siblings, including a twin brother. He was described by the Itamar community as a beloved, values-driven, and vibrant youth, a significant figure in the local youth movement, and an active counselor. He was an active participant in community life, loved by his friends, and respected by those around him.

Large police forces arrived at the scene, collected evidence, and launched an investigation into the circumstances of the incident. The investigation has been transferred to the Central Unit of the Menashe District. Police stated that the motive is criminal and there is no suspicion of a terror attack. The head of the Samaria Regional Council, Yossi Dagan, expressed shock and sorrow, stating, "Amihai was a young man who had his whole life ahead of him. He went out with his friends for a Selichot evening and did not return home." The council is providing support to the grieving family and community.