Israeli Caregiver Murdered by Former Convicted Killer She Cared For in Jerusalem
Dafna Cohen, a Jerusalem resident, mourns her older sister Haviva Washadi, a 67-year-old caregiver who was murdered last year by Shimon Gutman, an 81-year-old man she cared for in his home in Kiryat Yovel. Gutman, who had a criminal past as a convicted murderer from 1980, killed Haviva shortly before the Jewish New Year. Haviva had worked for Gutman for years, unaware of his violent history, which included a mail bomb he sent that killed three people, including his former mother-in-law. After serving 18 years in prison, Gutman was released and lived quietly until the recent murder.
The family only discovered Haviva’s disappearance after she failed to return from work and frantic searches led to the discovery of her body in Gutman’s home. Gutman initially denied her arrival that day, but evidence and family intuition suggested otherwise. The ongoing criminal trial reveals Gutman’s attempts to cover up the crime, while he continues to deny involvement.
Haviva’s family has filed a civil lawsuit against Gutman, the National Insurance Institute, and the caregiving company "Pa'ar," accusing them of negligence for failing to disclose Gutman’s dangerous past. They argue that the National Insurance Institute should have known about his criminal record and informed the caregiving agency, which should have conducted background checks. Haviva’s sister Dafna emphasizes that had Haviva known about Gutman’s history, she would never have agreed to work for him.
The caregiving company and National Insurance Institute have responded that the matter is under judicial review, with the National Insurance Institute stating it does not have access to criminal records due to privacy laws. The family hopes their lawsuit will lead to systemic changes to prevent similar tragedies. Meanwhile, the criminal trial continues, with the family struggling emotionally as Gutman appears well during court sessions while Haviva remains buried.
Haviva was known for her kindness and dedication, caring not only for elderly clients but also for her nieces and nephews. Her sudden death has left a deep void in her family and community, highlighting failures in the system meant to protect vulnerable caregivers.
