Beersheba Woman Fatally Stabbed and Nine Year Old Son Seriously Wounded in Domestic Attack

Beersheba police arrest husband after 40-year-old Merav Edri-Vanunu is killed and her 9-year-old son is seriously wounded in a domestic stabbing.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 3:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Times of Israel

Fatal Domestic Violence Incident Shakes Beersheba Neighborhood

The city of Beersheba was struck by a violent domestic tragedy on the night of April 19, 2026, resulting in the death of 40-year-old Merav Edri-Vanunu. According to preliminary police reports, emergency services were called to a residential address following reports of a severe physical altercation involving a bladed weapon. Upon arrival, first responders discovered the woman with multiple life-threatening wounds, and despite intensive efforts to stabilize her, she was pronounced dead at the scene. This incident adds to a troubling rise in domestic fatalities reported across the Southern District over the last fiscal quarter.

Child Targeted in Attack Remains in Serious Condition

The violence also targeted the victim’s nine-year-old son, who was found at the residence with significant injuries. Magen David Adom paramedics provided immediate life-saving treatment before transporting the child to Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba. Hospital officials confirmed on Monday morning that the boy underwent surgery and remains in serious but stable condition in the pediatric intensive care unit. Medical staff and social services are currently monitoring the minor, who is the sole surviving witness to the immediate aftermath of the assault within the family home.

Husband Apprehended Following Brief Police Pursuit

Law enforcement officials quickly identified the victim's husband, a 39-year-old resident of the city, as the sole suspect in the double stabbing. Following a brief search of the surrounding area, police units apprehended the man and took him into custody for further questioning. While no formal motive has been disclosed, investigators are looking into whether there was a history of domestic disturbances reported to the authorities. The suspect is expected to appear in the Beersheba Magistrate’s Court later today for an initial hearing regarding the extension of his remand.