Driver Suspected in Fatal Hit-and-Run Remains in Custody

A court in Hadera extended the arrest of Mahmoud Samhat, 21, by two days on suspicion of causing the death of 17-year-old Amihai Atiya and fleeing the scene. Police had requested an eight-day extension, but the judge ruled that only a few remaining investigative actions were necessary. The judge stated there was no indication the incident was intentional but raised doubts about Samhat's account that he did not realize he had hit Atiya.

Samhat's defense attorneys argued he fled out of fear for his life after a crowd gathered around his vehicle. They claimed he did not notice hitting Atiya and informed his employer, who then contacted the police. The prosecution confirmed this claim is being investigated. The initial investigation considered a nationalistic motive, but this suspicion has since weakened.

The judge expressed skepticism regarding Samhat's claim of not realizing he had struck Atiya, noting that the manner of the collision likely made it impossible to miss. The judge also questioned the logic of fleeing all the way to Netanya, even if Samhat felt threatened. The court ordered police to complete remaining investigations by the next day, emphasizing the need for all security camera footage if a further extension is sought.

Samhat was also shot and injured after the incident, with police investigating the circumstances surrounding this. The judge indicated that a decision on filing charges would be made after the remaining investigative steps are completed.