Police Report Progress in Eldar Dayan Murder Investigation, Suspects Begin Talking

Israeli police announced significant progress in the investigation of Eldar Dayan's murder, with suspects starting to provide statements. Authorities expect to clarify the circumstances surrounding Dayan's final moments within the coming days.

Dayan, a 23-year-old from Dimona, had been missing for about three weeks after going out with friends on July 16. His last communications included telling his sister and girlfriend "it's a mess, we'll talk later." His phone went offline shortly after, and no contact was made since.

His body was found in an advanced state of decomposition near Highway 40, close to a gas station where a car linked to the case was discovered last month. The abandoned vehicle, belonging to the mother of one suspect, had a shattered window and blood stains, prompting police to investigate a possible hit-and-run incident.

Two of Dayan's friends were arrested as suspects. Their accounts differ, with one claiming they were assaulted by unknown assailants and the other denying this. Police emphasize that this is not a typical missing person case and are exploring all investigative leads. Relatives were informed of the body identification after learning about it through media reports earlier in the day.