Gunfight Erupts in Ashkelon Neighborhood, Suspect Arrested in North Israel Hideout

A violent gang-related shooting occurred about two months ago in the Samson neighborhood of Ashkelon, near residential buildings, kindergartens, and public institutions. Exclusive footage obtained by News 14 shows several men confronting each other in a parking lot, escalating from a verbal dispute to gunfire. According to the indictment, 43-year-old Ashkelon resident Shalom Zaguri pulled out a firearm and fired at least two shots at departing vehicles, sparking a dangerous shootout in a populated area.

After the shooting, Zaguri hid the loaded gun in nearby bushes and fled the scene. Ashkelon police from the Lachish district conducted an intensive investigation over several months to locate the main suspect. They eventually found Zaguri at a guesthouse in northern Israel, where he was arrested along with another individual. Multiple phones and SIM cards were seized from him. During interrogation, Zaguri confessed to the charges.

The Southern District Prosecutor's Office filed a serious indictment against Zaguri at the Beersheba District Court, charging him with illegal possession and use of a firearm and reckless shooting in a residential area, endangering lives. The incident highlights ongoing gang violence risks in civilian neighborhoods of Ashkelon.