The suspects in the killing of Yemanu Zelka on Independence Day are expected to be indicted today, with the main suspect expected to face a charge of negligent murder, Hebrew media outlets report.
Police recommended last week that the main suspect, age 15, face a charge of aggravated murder, but the lesser charge of negligent murder is reportedly expected because the murder weapon has not been found.
Last night, dozens of people, including Zelka’s family members, protested outside the State Attorney’s Office in Tel Aviv against the anticipated filing.
A total of 16 suspects will be charged today in connection with their involvement in the murder, according to Channel 12.
Zelka, a 21-year-old Pizza Hut employee in Petah Tikva, was stabbed to death on the night of the holiday in an attack by a group of adolescents after he told them not to spray party foam in the restaurant.
After waiting outside for Zelka to finish his late-night shift, the youths ambushed and beat him, with one assailant taking out a knife and stabbing him. He died of his wounds a day later.
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Sunday, May 10, 2026
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