Suspect Arrested for Stabbing Death of Young Boy in Beit Shemesh

The investigation into the murder of seven-year-old Hillel Mordechai Dadon in Beit Shemesh is ongoing, led by the Jerusalem District Central Unit. Authorities suspect that the accused, 26-year-old Liel Ifergan, first visited the apartment where the children were hours before the stabbing, briefly spoke with the landlord, left, and then returned later to attack the children. The stabbing occurred while the children were playing in an inflatable pool in the yard, resulting in the death of Hillel Dadon from his injuries at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital.

Police spokesperson Deputy Chief Superintendent Giya Avrahami described the scene as very difficult and stated that investigators are focusing on understanding the suspect's motive. Ifergan, who lives nearby, was arrested shortly after the incident by Beit Shemesh police and his detention was extended by the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court until August 25, 2026.

The incident took place earlier this week on Emek HaZaytim Street in the old neighborhood of Beit Shemesh. Two cousins, aged four and seven, were stabbed with a sharp object. The family father found the injured children by the pool, while the mother was out shopping for a birthday celebration. A 15-year-old relative who was watching the children witnessed the attack. The body of Hillel Dadon was released for burial after expedited legal and forensic procedures supervised by Rabbi Asher Landau of the Institute of Forensic Medicine.

Police continue collecting evidence to fully understand the circumstances and ensure the suspect faces the full extent of the law. Additional details about the investigation remain under police confidentiality.