Jerusalem Court Extends Detention of Suspect in Fatal Stabbing of 7-Year-Old in Beit Shemesh

The Jerusalem Magistrate's Court has extended the detention of Liel Ifergan, 26, suspected of fatally stabbing 7-year-old Hillel Mordechai Dadon in Beit Shemesh, by 10 days. The court also approved continued psychiatric evaluation amid ongoing investigations into the motive behind the brutal attack. Days before the stabbing, Ifergan's family requested a psychiatric assessment through their health fund, but were told he was not considered dangerous and the appointment was scheduled for December, four months later. Ifergan had previously been hospitalized in a psychiatric institution but was released after being deemed not a threat to himself or others.

Hillel was stabbed to death about a week ago during a birthday party in Beit Shemesh, where his 4-year-old cousin was also seriously injured. Both children were under the supervision of a 15-year-old relative who witnessed the attack. They were found injured near a home swimming pool and taken to the hospital by emergency services. Despite medical efforts, Hillel succumbed to his wounds. Police are investigating whether a prior dispute between the neighboring families contributed to the incident. Ifergan's father was recently arrested on suspicion of obstructing the investigation but was released to house arrest.

Hillel's father, Amos, recounted that his son remained conscious after being stabbed and spoke with the father of the other child, who tried to stop the bleeding. Amos described the profound loss, saying, "All my strength was drained from me because we had an extraordinary father-son love. He was full of love and always smiling. I received a gift for seven and a half years, and yesterday it ended."