Man From Beit Shemesh Suspected in Killing 7-Year-Old Hallel Dedon and Injuring Cousin

The investigation continues into the murder of 7-year-old Hallel Mordechai Dedon and the stabbing of his 4-year-old cousin in Beit Shemesh. The suspect, 26-year-old Liel Ifergan from Beit Shemesh, reportedly arrived at the apartment where the children were hours before the attack, left, and then returned later. Police suspect he stabbed the children with a sharp object while they were playing in a backyard pool. Hallel Dedon was pronounced dead at the scene, and the younger cousin was seriously injured and taken to the hospital. Ifergan was arrested shortly after the incident and is currently under investigation by the Jerusalem District Police. His detention was extended by four days at the police's request. Deputy Head of the Jerusalem District Investigation Unit, Chief Inspector Guy Avrahami, described the scene as very difficult and said the investigation is focused on understanding the suspect's motive and reconstructing the events to ensure full accountability.