Driver Suspected in Fatal Hit-and-Run at Hadera Mall Released to House Arrest

A 21-year-old man suspected of fatally striking a 17-year-old boy at a Hadera mall last week has been released to house arrest. Mahmoud Samhat of Kafr Manda will remain under house arrest until October 1. The incident occurred at the "Village" mall in Hadera, where Amihai Attia, 17, was killed.

During a court hearing, the judge stated that Samhat claimed he was fleeing a mob that was pursuing him, intending to lynch him. According to Samhat's account, he did not realize he had hit someone, which would preclude charges of leaving the scene of an accident. The judge noted that investigation materials suggest the act was not intentional, but at most negligent.

The judge further commented that the individuals who pursued Samhat, rather than Samhat himself, were primarily responsible for the tragic outcome, although Samhat might bear some responsibility, which will be determined later. The court ordered Samhat's release to house arrest.