Israeli Police Extend Detention of Eldar Dayan’s Friends Over Threats and Hit-and-Run Incident

The Petah Tikva Magistrate’s Court extended the detention of Omri Peretz and Maxim Barberman by four days in connection with the disappearance of their friend Eldar Dayan. The police suspect the two were involved in a hit-and-run incident during a fight between two groups of youths, as well as in evidence tampering and obstructing the investigation. Additionally, police revealed that Peretz and Barberman allegedly threatened Dayan with murder.

The case was transferred last week to the Petah Tikva police, who requested a seven-day extension for the suspects, residents of Dimona. Police sergeant major Yaniv Indi described the case as "media-sensitive," explaining that after a dispute between the groups, one of the suspects drove a car that ran over others. Following this, the suspects reportedly threatened Dayan’s life. Although the other group involved did not file a complaint, police questioned them and identified the driver responsible for the hit-and-run.

The suspects face charges including endangering human life with a vehicle, evidence concealment, and investigation obstruction, as they allegedly attempted to remove the car’s license plate after the incident. Judge Gil Gabai approved a four-day extension, citing reasonable suspicion and concerns over investigation interference. The court allowed the publication of the suspects’ names and photos, with a temporary gag order until 2 p.m.

Defense attorneys claimed their clients are being held as "hostages" until Dayan is found and denied involvement in the hit-and-run or threats. Eldar Dayan, 23, from Dimona, has been missing for over two weeks. He last communicated with his sister and girlfriend on July 16, mentioning some trouble, and has since disappeared. His phone is unreachable, and no signs of life have been detected.

A few days ago, a car belonging to one suspect’s mother was found abandoned in Petah Tikva with a shattered windshield and blood stains, possibly linked to Dayan. Police are investigating whether the vehicle was involved in a hit-and-run accident. The investigation is ongoing, with police exploring various leads, including possible hospitalizations related to the incident. Authorities emphasize this is not a typical missing person case and continue to probe all angles.