Teenager Killed in Hit-and-Run After Confrontation at Prayer Event

A 17-year-old named Amihai was killed in a hit-and-run incident in Hadera on Thursday night. The event occurred in the parking lot of a shopping complex where a prayer service was taking place. Witnesses reported that the driver of the vehicle, a resident of the village of Manda, had an altercation with worshippers because he was unloading goods during the prayer.

Eyewitnesses and security footage show the driver reversing at high speed while being pursued by several young men. He then stopped, turned right, struck Amihai, and fled the scene. The driver, who works in vegetable distribution, told investigators he did not see the teenager and was unaware he had hit him. He stated that many young people were chasing his commercial vehicle and he feared for his life, saying, "I was afraid they would kill me and I drove in reverse, I was afraid I wouldn't stay alive."

An employee at the complex explained that the confrontation began due to noise from the driver's vehicle, drawing a crowd of youths. The driver attempted to explain he needed to unload his cargo quickly but could not appease the agitated group. A commotion ensued, and as the driver attempted to escape, he hit Amihai.

The driver sustained minor injuries from a shot fired by a member of a civilian security team who believed the incident might be a nationalistic attack. He continued driving and was eventually apprehended near Netanya. Initially suspected of murder, the charge was later downgraded to leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving, and endangering lives. The Shin Bet has ruled out a nationalistic motive at this time.

The driver's attorney stated that the incident was not a deliberate murder or intentional ramming, emphasizing his client felt threatened and was trying to escape the mob. He also confirmed the driver was shot in the hand by a security team member. Amihai, who was from the settlement of Itamar, was a student at the Yeshivat Hitzim and was attending the prayer event with fellow students. He is survived by his parents and five siblings, including a twin brother.