16-Year-Old Charged with Arson After Setting Ashdod Restaurant on Fire

A 16-year-old minor from Ashdod has been indicted for arson after setting fire to the "Pescado" restaurant in the city several weeks ago. According to the indictment filed by the Southern District Prosecutor's Office at the Beersheba Juvenile District Court, the minor arrived at the restaurant at night riding an electric scooter, wearing gloves, a ski mask, and a motorcycle helmet, carrying a bottle of gasoline. He initially smashed the glass door with a stone and left the scene. About half an hour later, he returned, entered through the broken door, poured gasoline inside, and ignited the fire.

The flames spread rapidly, causing significant damage to the restaurant and halting its operations temporarily. During the arson, the minor suffered second- and third-degree burns on his left leg and fled the scene on his scooter. A passerby alerted emergency services, and firefighters managed to control the blaze and prevent further spread. After the incident, the minor hid in an abandoned apartment for several days, attempting to treat his burns himself. He was located and arrested by police five days later and taken to the hospital for medical treatment.

The charges against him include arson, intentional property damage, and breaking into a business. The investigation was conducted by the Ashdod police station. Due to the defendant's minor status, publication of any identifying details is prohibited by law.