Two Charged in Accidental Killing of Barber During Attempted Family Murder in Tamra

The Haifa District Prosecutor's Office filed charges on Monday against two suspects, including a 17-year-old minor, for the killing of barber Yasser Abu Elhija in Tamra. The suspects had planned to murder a relative while he was getting a haircut but accidentally shot the barber, who later died. The suspects are the minor and his 19-year-old cousin, accused of intentional murder targeting the minor's uncle, who was the intended victim.

The incident occurred about six weeks ago around 1 p.m. when police received reports of a shooting at a barbershop on a main street in Tamra. Two victims were evacuated: 34-year-old Yasser Abu Elhija, who died shortly after, and another 39-year-old man who was seriously injured. The investigation revealed the shooter arrived on an electric bike, fired at both the intended target and the barber, who was hit unintentionally.

Following extensive investigation by the Northern District's Central Unit, police located the suspect's bike, helmet, and clothing hidden in a container. On July 19, after the investigation became public, several suspects were arrested, including the two charged. Evidence includes a photo found on the minor's phone showing him with two guns. The older suspect conducted reconnaissance and aided the shooter’s escape.

The prosecution charged both with intentional murder, illegal weapon possession, and obstruction of justice, requesting their detention until trial. Northern District Commander Meir Eliyahu emphasized the priority of solving murder cases and combating serious crime, stating police are using all resources to ensure suspects are brought to justice.