The Central District Attorney's Office has filed an indictment in the Lod District Court against 28-year-old Shahar Azulay of Rehovot for a series of grave offenses, including attempted murder, threats, possession of a knife, and obstruction of justice. The case follows a violent incident that occurred late last month, which reportedly escalated from a minor dispute in a public space.
According to reports from Channel 13, the incident began when Azulay made offensive remarks toward a woman passing near a kiosk in Rehovot. The victim, who was present with his girlfriend, chose to confront the defendant, leading to a verbal argument. Following the dispute, the kiosk owner demanded that the parties leave. According to the indictment, the victim and his girlfriend walked away while Azulay headed in the opposite direction.
However, about ten minutes later, the defendant allegedly returned to the kiosk area armed with a knife. Eyewitness accounts and documentation suggest the defendant made explicit threats toward the victim before approaching him. The indictment alleges that the defendant approached the victim and stabbed him multiple times in the head and face. Following the attack, the defendant fled the scene on an electric bicycle and allegedly disposed of the knife in a location that has yet to be identified.
As a result of the stabbing, the victim was evacuated to Kaplan Medical Center in serious condition, where he required complex medical procedures while sedated and intubated. Along with the filing of the indictment, the prosecution requested to extend Azulay's detention until the conclusion of legal proceedings. In its motion, the prosecution emphasized that the defendant’s actions demonstrate a profound disregard for human life and a willingness to use lethal violence without hesitation. Authorities cite a significant risk to public safety, given the nature of the offenses and the intent attributed to the defendant to cause the victim's death.
These are legal allegations that have yet to be adjudicated in court, and the defendant is entitled to a fair process where he can present his version of events. The trial is expected to take place in the Lod District Court, where evidence and arguments from both parties will be examined.