Israeli Police Solve Tamra Barbershop Murder: Intended Target Survived, Barber Killed by Mistake

Israeli police have solved the murder of 34-year-old Yasser Abu Elhija in Tamra, which occurred on July 7 at a barbershop on a central street in the city. According to the investigation, Abu Elhija was not the intended target; rather, the shooter aimed to kill his uncle, who was present at the barbershop. Abu Elhija, who worked as a barber, was accidentally shot and later died from his wounds. Another customer, aged 39, was also seriously injured in the shooting.

The investigation, transferred to the Northern District's central unit, revealed that a 17-year-old suspect arrived at the barbershop on an electric bicycle armed with a pistol. He opened fire at his uncle, who was inside, but Abu Elhija was hit instead. About ten days after the murder, police found the hiding place where the suspect allegedly concealed the bicycle, along with a helmet and clothing used during the attack.

On July 19, the investigation became public, and several suspects were arrested, including the 17-year-old shooter and his 19-year-old cousin, who is also the nephew of the intended target. Police say the older cousin conducted reconnaissance before the shooting and helped the shooter escape afterward. Investigators also found a photo on the minor's phone showing him holding two pistols.

The Haifa District Prosecutor's Office, represented by attorney Yossi Gimpel, is expected to file charges against the two suspects and request their continued detention at the Haifa District Court. Northern District Commander Commissioner Meir Eliyahu emphasized that solving murder cases and combating serious crime remain top priorities, with the police employing advanced technology and intelligence capabilities to ensure justice is served.