Gila Ivgi hit-and-run in Ma'ale Adumim: Yonatan Avers charged with causing death by negligence
The prosecution has filed an indictment against Yonatan Avers for the fatal hit-and-run of Gila Ivgi in Ma'ale Adumim. The family of the deceased expressed disappointment with the lenient charge and concerns regarding potential police interference, which the Israel Police have officially denied.
The Jerusalem District Attorney's Office has filed an indictment against 18-year-old Ma'ale Adumim resident Yonatan Avers for causing the death of Gila Ivgi by negligence. The incident occurred approximately three months ago when Avers struck Ivgi at a pedestrian crossing. The prosecution’s decision to charge him with causing death by negligence rather than manslaughter has left the victim's family deeply disappointed.
In an interview with N12, members of the Ivgi family described leaving their meeting with prosecution representatives in tears:
"They told us: 'You are going to be disappointed, do not expect a significant sentence.'"
The family claims that the investigation revealed Avers was driving at a speed of at least 80 km/h, yet the indictment states it is impossible to determine the exact speed at the moment of impact. Furthermore, the family expressed fears that a relative of Avers, who serves as a senior Israel Police officer, may have exerted pressure to influence the investigation.
"We are afraid that pressure was exerted. We were told there were many people trying to intervene in the investigation. It will sadden us deeply if it turns out that improper interference harmed the investigation and justice for our mother," the family stated.
The incident took place on May 30, 2026. According to the indictment, the defendant was driving at approximately 80 km/h in a 50 km/h zone just before the crash. When Ivgi stepped onto the pedestrian crossing, Avers failed to stop or yield, striking her with the front of his vehicle. She was thrown 50 meters by the force of the impact, and no braking marks were found at the scene.
The Israel Police issued a statement in response:
"The Israel Police shares in the family's grief over their heavy loss. Contrary to claims, all findings and evidence, including vehicle data, were transferred to the prosecution as is customary. Allegations regarding intervention by a senior officer are false and have no basis in fact. The investigation was conducted professionally and thoroughly to reach the truth and uphold the law."
