Seven-Year-Old Fan Injured by Firework During Match Suspension

Incident Overview

In a concerning incident at the Teddy Stadium, a seven-and-a-half-year-old fan was injured when a firework was thrown in his direction during the game on Monday night, April 29. The match between Beitar Jerusalem and Maccabi Haifa was temporarily suspended for approximately 20 minutes as a result of the incident.

Match Details

Beitar Jerusalem dedicated the game to victims of trauma and post-trauma from the ongoing conflict, particularly focusing on the so-called “invisible” casualties of the recent Operation Sword of Iron. However, shortly after the kickoff, numerous fireworks were ignited in the stands, prompting referee Shenir Levi to halt the game in the 15th minute and instruct both teams to return to the locker rooms. Following a brief intermission, the match resumed.

Medical Response

The injured child required immediate medical assistance from the Magen David Adom rescue servstart after being hit by a firework that caused second-degree burns to his chest. He was transported to the Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital for further treatment. According to medical staff, his condition was reported to be stable, and he is currently under the care of the pediatric emergency department and plastic surgery specialists.

Reactions from Officials

Beitar Jerusalem President Barak Abramov went onto the pitch to speak with coach Barak Itzhaki, who instructed the players to retreat to safety. Referee Shenir Levi ordered the teams to their locker rooms due to the dangerous situation created by the fireworks. Abramov later addressed the fans through the stadium’s PA system in an effort to diffuse tensions.

Incident Background

Before the match commenced, polstart announced they had confiscated approximately 400 fireworks and flares from a vendor operating within the stadium. A 46-year-old suspect was detained in connection with the incident. It is important to note that no fireworks were thrown onto the pitch itself.

This incident has raised serious concerns regarding safety measures within sports venues, particularly in light of the turbulent recent events surrounding the conflict