Driver Critically Injured After Police Open Fire on Stolen Car on Route 60

Police officers opened fire on Friday afternoon at a vehicle on Route 60 after it was allegedly stolen from Jerusalem and driven toward the Gush Etzion junction, breaking through roadblocks and endangering police lives. Following the gunfire, the vehicle overturned and caught fire, leaving the driver in critical condition as flames spread to a nearby forest.

The incident occurred north of Kiryat Arba near the Gad Natan Farm, and Route 60 was closed in both directions. The suspect's vehicle bore Israeli license plates, but his identity has not yet been determined. Police initiated a chase and set up roadblocks after receiving reports of the stolen car fleeing Jerusalem.

According to police, the driver began driving recklessly, endangering officers and road users while breaking through police roadblocks in an attempt to escape. "Police forces who felt their lives were in danger fired at the vehicle. The driver caused a single-vehicle accident as a result of which the car overturned, caught fire, and caused a blaze," authorities stated.

Fire and Rescue services reported that firefighters from the Yehuda station arrived at the scene and found the driver lying next to the burning vehicle. They worked to extinguish the car and the nearby brush while scanning the area to rule out any trapped individuals.