Police Break Silence of Suspect in Rabbi Amos Gueta Murder After Two Weeks

Two weeks after the murder of Rabbi Amos Gueta in Netanya, investigators from the Sharon Crime Fighting Unit in the Central District succeeded in breaking the silence of the main suspect. The suspect, a man in his twenties from Netanya, had maintained silence throughout the interrogation, pretending to be mute by communicating only through hand gestures and sometimes pointing to the sky, creating the impression he could not speak. However, investigators monitored his behavior outside the interrogation room and caught him verbally requesting a cola when offered water, unaware he was being recorded. Confronted with this evidence, the suspect began speaking during the interrogation but has yet to provide a concrete account regarding the charges, focusing mainly on religious matters.

The incident occurred on July 1, when the suspect arrived at the yeshiva where Rabbi Gueta regularly met visitors and prayed. Present at the time were several regular attendees, including former criminals who had returned to religious life and were close to the rabbi. According to the investigation, a dispute erupted between the suspect and the rabbi, during which the suspect lost control, drew a knife, and stabbed Rabbi Gueta four times before fleeing. The police launched a wide manhunt and arrested the suspect in the city center shortly afterward.

The investigation revealed that the suspect and Rabbi Gueta had a prior acquaintance through a rehabilitation program in which the suspect, who is suspected to have mental health issues, participated and was part of the rabbi’s circle. Emergency medical teams found Rabbi Gueta unconscious, without pulse or breathing, suffering from severe stab wounds. Despite prolonged resuscitation efforts at the scene and en route to Laniado Hospital, doctors declared him dead.