Police Suspect Missing Dimona Man Eldar Dayan in Hit-and-Run, Friend Held in Custody

Police have made a significant development in the case of Eldar Dayan, a 23-year-old man from Dimona who has been missing since late July. Authorities suspect Dayan was involved in a hit-and-run accident and believe he may not be simply missing but rather hiding to avoid repercussions. Concurrently, the Beersheba Magistrate's Court extended the detention of Dayan's friend, Maxim Braverman, until Sunday. Braverman, arrested alongside another Dimona resident, faces charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and obstruction of justice. The second suspect is expected to have his detention extended later today.

Investigators are trying to determine who was driving the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run, with suspicions pointing towards Braverman. Police also believe Dayan was involved, though his exact role remains unclear. The court noted inconsistencies in Braverman's initial statements, describing his version as partially contradicted. The investigation is still in its early stages, with many inquiries pending.

The police received the missing person report for Dayan on July 25. On July 18, Dayan and the two suspects were seen together in the Petah Tikva area. That same day, police found an abandoned car near a gas station in Petah Tikva with a broken windshield and blood inside. Witnesses reported several people removing the license plate and fleeing. The vehicle belonged to the mother of one suspect, and Dayan was believed to have been inside before disappearing. The suspect's mother said her son had been absent for several days. When contacted, he claimed he was heading to Dimona and would report to the police but never arrived.

Police also found clothing near the road in Petah Tikva, which is being examined but currently appears unrelated to Dayan's disappearance. Prior to the arrests, conflicting accounts emerged from Dayan's friends about an alleged fight involving foreign civilians. Dayan's mother said one friend’s story changed multiple times. Before disappearing, Dayan messaged his partner about a "mess" and said he was returning to the city. He also spoke to his sister about the situation but has had no contact since, and his phone is unreachable.

Despite the suspicion that Dayan is hiding due to the accident, police continue to classify him as missing and are actively searching for him. The investigation into the hit-and-run, the identities of those involved, and the obstruction of justice allegations remains ongoing.