A clip from a video taken at the mall in Beersheba - faces have been blurred out

Deadly Terror Attack at Beersheba Bus Station: One Killed, Several Injured

Details
The Judean Staff
News

In a shocking and brazen act of terror, the usually bustling Beersheba Central Bus Station in southern Israel was turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy on Sunday afternoon. Gunfire and frantic screams pierced the air as at least one woman was brutally killed, and several others were injured in what authorities have described as a suspected terrorist attack. The assault, which is currently believed to be a combined shooting and stabbing incident, sent shockwaves throughout the country, sparking immediate police and emergency responses. The terrorist was named as Ahmed Said Akabi, an Israeli citizen living in the Hora Diaspora in the Negev.

The woman who was killed was identified as 19 year old Shira Chaya Susslik, a border patrol officer who was attached to the southern border patrol unit.


A Scene of Horror: Chaos Erupts

The attack occurred in the heart of the city at 2:27 p.m., during one of the busiest times of the day when the central station was packed with commuters, shoppers, and families. According to Magen David Adom (MADA), the first to respond, paramedics rushed to the scene to treat the injured. The victims were found in various states of injury, with one person in critical condition and two others suffering moderate to serious wounds. As medics desperately fought to stabilize the injured, the situation on the ground remained fluid and fraught with tension.

Swift Police Response: Terrorist Neutralized

The attacker was reportedly neutralized at the scene by police forces, though the precise details of how the terrorist was thwarted are still under investigation. Israeli police, including large forces from the Southern District, arrived swiftly to secure the area and conduct extensive searches. "We are continuing to search for any potential accomplices," said Aryeh Doron, a police spokesperson, on Channel 12 News. "We urge residents to avoid the area until the scene is fully secured and the situation under control."

The Beersheba Municipality also issued an urgent public warning, calling on residents to stay clear of the vicinity of the central bus station and allow security forces to do their work. "The event is not over yet," read the statement. "Please refrain from coming to the scene, and stay tuned for further updates."

Eyewitness Accounts: 'It Was Like a War Zone'

Eyewitnesses described the terrifying scene as one of utter panic and fear. "I was walking towards the McDonald's branch when I heard gunshots," said one witness. "People were screaming and running in every direction. It was like a war zone." Another witness, who was near Shmariahu Levin Street, added, "It all happened so fast. One moment, everything was normal, and the next, there was complete chaos."

According to initial reports, the attack may have unfolded in two separate locations, further deepening the sense of confusion and terror. Galei Tzahal Radio’s Doron Kadosh reported, "The possibility that this was a coordinated attack involving both shooting and stabbing is being investigated."

Emergency Services Rally: Multiple Casualties

Magen David Adom (MADA) spokesperson confirmed that their teams provided immediate medical treatment to the victims, both at the scene and while transferring them to Soroka Hospital. In an updated statement, MADA reported that eight people were injured in total. Among them, one remains in critical condition, while four others are in moderate condition and three sustained light injuries. Paramedics worked feverishly to stabilize the critically injured victims, with one seriously injured woman receiving urgent care on the scene.

As more details emerged, ZAKA, a volunteer emergency response organization, initially reported two casualties at the scene. However, the numbers quickly changed as the full scale of the attack became apparent.

Soroka spokeswoman, Yasmin Amos added: "From the incident at a central station in Be'er Sheva, 8 injured people have so far been evacuated to the trauma room at Soroka Medical Center. 2 were injured in serious condition, 4 in moderate condition and 2 in mild condition. Upon being informed (of the attack), we increased the staffing of multi-professional teams in Soroka to receive the wounded."

The Nation Reacts: Grief and Anger

This latest attack has plunged Israel into mourning yet again, as the country grapples with an unrelenting wave of terror incidents aimed at civilians. The attack in Beersheba comes on the heels of heightened security alerts throughout Israel, with officials warning of potential escalations in violence.

In the wake of the attack, the Israeli public has been left reeling, with many expressing grief, anger, and a renewed resolve. "Our hearts go out to the victims and their families," said one local resident. "We will not be cowed by terror. We will continue to live our lives, but this violence must end."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other government officials are expected to convene an emergency meeting to discuss the attack and assess the security situation across the country. As the investigation continues, Israelis remain on high alert, bracing for the possibility of further unrest.

A Grim Reality: Terrorism in Israel

The tragedy in Beersheba serves as a stark reminder of the grim reality Israelis face on a daily basis. Terrorism remains a constant threat, with violent extremists seeking to undermine the peace and stability of the region. This attack, targeting innocent civilians at a central transportation hub, underscores the urgent need for vigilance, strong security measures, and national unity.

As the details continue to unfold, one thing is clear: Israel will not waver in the face of terror. The resilience of its people and the strength of its security forces will ensure that the perpetrators of such heinous acts are brought to justice, and that the nation's resolve to protect its citizens remains unshaken.

Sign Up For The Judean Newsletter

 I agree with the Terms and conditions and the Privacy policy

About Us

The Judean is a weekly digital blog highlighting Israel's vibrant Democracy, rich culture, and complex history. Through compelling op-eds, and featured articles, The Judean brings the real Israel into focus. 'From The River To The Sea' Israel is truly free.
Modi'in, Israel 71702
+975-50-226-6956
info@thejudean.com