Prominent Netanya Rabbi Stabbed to Death in Yeshiva, Police Hunt Suspect

A well-known rabbi in his 70s was fatally stabbed early Wednesday morning at a yeshiva on Shimon Bar Yochai Street in Netanya. Magen David Adom (MDA) received a report at 5:45 a.m. about a man critically injured. Paramedics found the rabbi unconscious, without pulse or breathing, suffering from severe penetrating wounds. Despite prolonged resuscitation efforts and transport to Laniado Hospital in critical condition, doctors declared him dead shortly after arrival.

Senior MDA paramedics Maor Brantz and Yonatan Yankelvich described the victim's critical state upon arrival and their life-saving attempts. Initial investigation revealed the suspect had intended to pray with the rabbi but became involved in an argument with others around the rabbi, who were reportedly former criminals undergoing repentance. The suspect allegedly stabbed the rabbi four times before fleeing.

Police identified the suspect as someone known to the rabbi through his community activities. A large-scale manhunt is underway by Sharon District police, Netanya station officers, and forensic investigators collecting evidence at the scene. Authorities have opened a criminal investigation into the stabbing, with the motive still under examination.