Netanya Convenience Store Murder Solved After Suspect Drops Mask During Escape
The murder of Alexander Zemach in Netanya has been solved after a suspect dropped his face mask during his escape, enabling police to identify him from surveillance footage.
The murder of Alexander Zemach at a convenience store in a Netanya gas station has been solved, following a crucial mistake made by the primary suspect, Pekadu Gibtu. During his escape from the scene, his face mask reportedly slipped off, allowing an officer who recognized him to identify the suspect from security footage.
According to investigators, while fleeing the gas station, Gibtu dropped the mask covering his face. Although his features were not fully exposed, a police officer who had known him since childhood successfully identified him in the surveillance videos. A source close to the investigation noted that this critical error could lead to a life sentence if he is convicted.
The Central District Prosecutor's Office is preparing to file an indictment against Gibtu at the Central District Court in Lod. Gibtu is being represented by defense attorneys Vicky Shmuel and Naama Alchadad, who firmly deny the allegations against him.
Gibtu, originally from Or Yehuda, was released from prison several months ago and subsequently moved temporarily to Netanya, where local media report he aligned with local criminal elements. Recently, Gibtu and Alik Ben were implicated in a shooting targeting a moving vehicle at the Tzameret Towers in Tel Aviv, prompting a severe indictment filed against the pair at the Tel Aviv District Court.
