Man Arrested for Torching Electric Car Near Assuta Hospital in Ashdod
A 56-year-old man was arrested for setting fire to an electric car near Assuta Medical Center in Ashdod, claiming inadequate medical treatment as his motive.
A 56-year-old resident of Be'er Ya'akov was arrested and remains in custody after allegedly setting fire to an electric vehicle near the Assuta Medical Center in Ashdod. Security personnel and firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze, which completely destroyed the car and damaged personal items inside.
Investigation and Confession
According to police findings, the suspect initially claimed a child had thrown a burning cigarette at the vehicle. However, he soon confessed, stating: "I did it because I didn't receive proper treatment at the hospital." Surveillance footage captured him placing a cloth under the front window and igniting it with a lighter.
"The suspect, without a clear reason, set fire to a vehicle parked near the hospital and caused extensive damage to property," stated the prosecution's remand request.
Indictment and Legal Proceedings
The Southern District Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment charging him with arson and malicious damage. Authorities also requested that he be held until the end of legal proceedings, citing his extensive criminal record, which includes violence, threats, and previous psychiatric hospitalizations. Judge Naser Abu Taha ordered him kept in detention pending further decisions.
