Police officer injured in hit-and-run near Shoham; does not appear to be terror

A police officer is severely wounded in a hit-and-run near the central Israeli town of Shoham. Police say it is a “suspected criminal incident,” meaning it is not believed to be terrorism.

A stolen vehicle hit the officer, then fled the scene, police say.

Officers later found the vehicle near the Kach Junction after searching the area and setting up roadblocks, police say in a statement.

Police are searching for the suspects, with the help of a helicopter, and are scouring the area for evidence.

The Magen David Adom emergency service says a man around 30 was injured in the incident, apparently the police officer.

He was found at the scene semi-conscious with severe injuries to his head and body, and rushed to the Tel Hashomer Medical Center for treatment, MDA says.

The incident appears to be criminal in nature, not terrorism. It comes a day after a deadly attack at the West Bank city of Ariel, and initially sparked speculation that it was another attack.