Security guard critically hurt in terror attack in Ma’ale Adumim

Police said Friday morning that a brutal hatchet attack on an Israeli security guard in the West Bank settlement of Ma’ale Adumim overnight was a terror attack, as doctors fought for the victim’s life at a Jerusalem hospital.

The 48-year-old security guard, who was unarmed, was attacked inside the town’s mall. He was struck multiple times in the head and upper body with an ax. The attacker fled the scene.

A manhunt was launched to find the assailant.

The victim arrived at Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem in Jerusalem unconscious and in critical condition, and was attached to artificial respiration.

Walla news reported that the attack occurred inside the mall’s offices, and police were investigating how the armed assailant had managed to reach them unimpeded.

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“He underwent surgery and his condition is very severe,” hospital officials said. “His life in in danger.”

Police closed off the town following the attack, and said Palestinian laborers would not be allowed to enter until Sunday.

“This is a grave incident,” said Judea and Samaria District police chief Shlomi Michael. “We will do everything to get our hands on the perpetrator.”