Israeli Court Sentences Driver to 8.5 Years for Deadly Cocaine-Impaired Crash
The Nazareth District Court sentenced Wasim Agbaria to eight and a half years in prison for causing a fatal car accident while driving under the influence of cocaine. The March 2025 crash occurred on Highway 71 near Afula, where Agbaria was driving a jeep with three passengers, none of whom wore seat belts, and the vehicle was uninsured. Agbaria's reckless driving led to a rear-end collision with a Nissan, causing both vehicles to lose control, cross into oncoming traffic, hit guardrails, and overturn. Two passengers in Agbaria's jeep, Asaf Koma and Yosef Mahamid, died from severe injuries, while Agbaria and another passenger were seriously injured. The Nissan driver also sustained head injuries. Both vehicles were completely destroyed.
The prosecution highlighted the catastrophic damage caused by Agbaria's decisions, including drug use, driving intoxicated, lack of insurance, and failure to secure passengers. Agbaria has a significant criminal record with 31 prior convictions, including two for driving under the influence and previous prison time for conspiracy and extortion. Judge Hana Sabbagh condemned Agbaria's behavior as showing total disregard for the law and public safety, turning the road into a deadly scene. The court noted that previous penalties failed to deter him from dangerous driving.
In addition to the prison sentence, Agbaria received a 15-year driving license suspension and a suspended sentence. He was ordered to pay 75,000 shekels in compensation to each victim's family and additional payments to the injured parties. The court took into account his early admission of guilt, acceptance of responsibility, severe injuries, and plea agreement in its sentencing.
Summary: Wasim Agbaria was sentenced to 8.5 years for causing a deadly 2025 car crash on Highway 71 while driving under cocaine influence, resulting in two deaths and multiple injuries. The court cited his reckless behavior and extensive criminal history, imposing prison time, license suspension, and compensation payments.
