Case is “complex and unique”.
ADVERTISEMENTPolice in Israel are still hunting an Israeli Arab identified as the suspect in Friday’s deadly shooting attack on a Tel Aviv bar.
29-year-old Nashat Melhem, who was known to the police, is still at large. He is from a village in northern Israel.
#BREAKING: Suspected shooter in deadly Tel Aviv attack has been named as Nashat Melhem https://t.co/vMBikzj76apic.twitter.com/eyr8rruOvz
— Ynetnews (@ynetnews) January 2, 2016
Main suspect in Tel Aviv shooting attack named as Nashat Melhem, 31, of Arara (was under media ban before)
— Ben Hartman (@Benhartman) January 2, 2016
Police say no clear motive has been established.
His father says he is deeply sorry for what happened. “I wish all the injured a speedy recovery. And I share the pain over this attack. Whether Arab or Israeli, I am sorry for everyone involved.” he told reporters outside the family home.
Officers have described the case as “complex and unique”.
The search began in Tel Aviv but giving details of the investigation is forbidden due to a court order.
Visiting the scene, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said security forces were searching for “a needle in a haystack”.
What happened?
Israelis Alon Bakal, 26, and Shimon Ruimi, 29, were killed at the Simta Bar on Dizengoff Street. It is a main thoroughfare in Tel Aviv. Several others were wounded, two seriously, in the attack which took place in the early afternoon.
Main suspect in Tel Aviv shooting attack named as Nashat Melhem, 31, of Arara (was under media ban before)
— Ben Hartman (@Benhartman) January 2, 2016
CCTV footage released moments after the attack shows the assailant browsing dried fruit snacks at a health food store next door to the bar.
He then pulls firearm from his backpack and steps onto the pavement, shooting indiscriminately.