Suspect in 7-Year-Old's Murder in Beit Shemesh Was Under Drug Influence

Israeli police are set to request an extension of the detention of Liel Ifergan, the suspect in the murder of 7-year-old Hillel Dadon and the stabbing of his 4-year-old cousin in Beit Shemesh. According to an investigation reported on Tuesday by Kan News, Ifergan was under the influence of drugs when he committed the attack. The police revealed that Ifergan first visited the apartment where the children were staying, briefly spoke with the property owner, and then returned home. Several hours later, he came back, saw the children, and carried out the assault.

The younger cousin was seriously injured in the incident. Police investigation findings published last week indicate the sequence of events leading to the attack. Police Chief Superintendent Guy Avrahami described the scene as very difficult, noting that the victim was a small child who died while playing in a pool. Authorities are focusing their investigation on understanding the suspect's motive and what led him to harm the children. The court hearing to extend Ifergan's detention is expected soon.