76-Year-Old Woman Attacked in Ashkelon Shares Fear and Helplessness After Assault

A 76-year-old woman from Ashkelon recounted being violently attacked while resting on a street bench, an incident that has left her fearful and reluctant to leave her home alone. The attack occurred as she was talking on the phone with a friend when a man sat next to her, followed her, and demanded money in Russian. After she said she did not understand, he struck her near the ear, causing her to fall and bleed. Despite her calls for help, passersby did not intervene, and one cyclist even nearly ran her over without stopping.

The woman was hospitalized for two days due to injuries to her hand and leg. Although police arrested a suspect nearby, she did not identify him in a subsequent lineup and was told not to worry about the arrest. She expressed ongoing fear, especially at night, and distrust of people around her, worried the attacker remains free.

Her family highlighted that violence in the neighborhood is not new; her husband was previously attacked in the same area, losing an eye after being struck with a stick. The family criticized the lack of effective surveillance and police resolution in the area near the central bus station and mall.

Her daughter, Tanya, emphasized the emotional toll on the family and the vulnerability of elderly victims. The woman’s experience underscores concerns about public safety and community response to violence in Ashkelon.