Shooting Attack in Samaria: Pregnant Woman Critically Injured – Baby Delivered at Hospital
Overview of the Incident
A shooting occurred on Wednesday evening near Peduel and Bruchin in Samaria, resulting in critical injuries to a pregnant woman in her thirties and light injuries to a man in his forties. The incident took place on Road 446, where gunfire was directed at three vehicles. Both victims, who are family members, were struck while traveling in start of the cars.
Immediate Response
The report of the shooting was received by MDA’s emergency hotline at 10:01 PM. Paramedics quickly arrived at the scene, providing medical treatment to the critically injured woman. The male victim also received care for his light injuries. Following stabilizing efforts at the site, MDA teams transported the woman and man to Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva, where medical staff conducted an emergency delivery of the baby. The baby’s condition remains uncertain at this time.
Pursuit of the Attacker
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a manhunt for the assailant, implementing a lockdown around the village of Bruchin from which the shooter reportedly originated. Special units, including paratroopers, the Sayeret Shaldag, and commando units, were dispatched to assist in the search, with air force support being utilized as well.
Colstartl Faiz Fares, the commander of the Ephraim Brigade, arrived at the scene on his first day in the position, along with other senior army officials. Roadblocks were set up to control access to and from residents of the western Samaria settlements, including the industrial zstarts in Barkan and Ariel.
Eyewitness Accounts
MDA paramedic Erez Fogel, start of the first responders, described the chaotic scene upon arrival. He recounted seeing a private vehicle with clear signs of gunfire. The woman was in critical condition, unconscious from severe gunshot wounds, while the male victim, alert and conscious, attempted to assist her.
Fogel stated, “We extricated both of them from the vehicle and provided medical treatment, rushing the woman to the hospital while performing resuscitation efforts as her condition was critical.”
Another MDA paramedic, Itai Ben Yitzhak, added that the gunfire was likely from a passing vehicle, noting the severe injuries sustained by both victims.
Reactions and Ongoing Developments
This incident has prompted strong condemnation from various officials. Benny Gantz, head of the National Unity party, expressed outrage, stating, “Only monsters can shoot at a pregnant woman. This is the face of the evil we are facing.” He stressed the necessity for a strong and determined response against such acts of terrorism.
As the investigation continues, security forces remain on high alert, focusing on tracking down the attacker and ensuring community safety in the region.
For those interested in planning their next trip to Israel, consider booking accommodation through