Police Confirm Eldar Dayan's Body Found After Three Weeks of Search in Central Israel

The police have confirmed that the body found on Thursday morning near Highway 40, close to Petah Tikva, is that of Eldar Dayan, who had been missing for two weeks following a family report. Dayan's relatives were informed of the identification after learning about the discovery through media reports. The National Institute of Forensic Medicine conducted comprehensive examinations, including external inspection, DNA sampling, and CT scans, to confirm the identity using advanced DNA technology developed since October 7.

Two of Dayan's friends remain in custody, with their detention extended by seven days on suspicion of murder. The court hearing was held behind closed doors at the request of the suspects' lawyers and the police. The body was found in an advanced state of decomposition near a gas station where a car belonging to one of the suspects' mothers was discovered last month with a shattered windshield and blood stains, possibly linked to a hit-and-run incident.

Dayan, 23, from Dimona, disappeared after going out with friends on July 16. His last communication included a message to his sister and girlfriend saying "chaos, we'll talk later." His phone has been unreachable since. The police investigation revealed conflicting accounts from the two suspects, with one claiming they were attacked by strangers and the other denying it. Authorities are exploring all leads, emphasizing this is not a typical missing person case.

Dayan's family criticized the police for poor handling of the case, accusing them of failing to promptly inform them about the discovery of the body despite the mother's persistent search near the gas station. The family's lawyer, Sapir Perdo, condemned the police's lack of communication and insensitivity throughout the investigation.

The police also noted that during a fight, a group of youths was hit by a vehicle, injuring one person, and the suspects are currently exercising their right to remain silent during interrogations. The investigation into the circumstances and cause of Dayan's death continues.