Court Recommends Downgrading Charge Against Driver Who Left Child to Die in Netanya Accident

The Central District Court in Lod has recommended reducing the conviction of 82-year-old Carol Pasler, who fatally struck 4-year-old Rafael Adna in Netanya, from intentional hit-and-run to negligent hit-and-run. Pasler was originally convicted of intentionally leaving the scene after hitting Rafael, who was crossing the road with his grandfather and other children, and sentenced to one year in prison. The court's panel suggested that Pasler did not knowingly realize she had hit a person but should have been aware of the possibility, which constitutes negligent abandonment with a maximum sentence of three years, rather than the seven years allowed for intentional abandonment.

The incident occurred about three years ago on Ben Gurion Boulevard when Pasler hit Rafael with the left front side of her car as he crossed the street. Rafael was thrown onto a traffic island, severely injured, and died days later. Pasler continued driving without stopping or calling for help. Her defense argued that she was not responsible for causing the accident, which was deemed unavoidable, and that due to her advanced age and cognitive limitations, she did not perceive the pedestrians or realize she had hit a person. They also criticized the investigation and trial process, citing translation issues and a hostile atmosphere including protests and threats.

The prosecution maintained that evidence showed Pasler was aware or deliberately ignored the fact she hit someone, citing her own statements and behavior after the accident. They emphasized that while she was not responsible for causing the collision, the hit-and-run charge stands independently and should remain. After hearing both sides, the judges recommended convicting Pasler of negligent abandonment. Her defense accepted the proposal, while the prosecution requested more time to consider. The next hearing was postponed to October due to the victim's parents being unable to attend.