Israeli authorities intensify investigation, honoring victims while pursuing accountability in refinery catastrophe.
A dramatic turn has unfolded in the probe into the deadly disaster at the Ashdod Oil Refineries Ltd. facility, as police arrested an equipment supplier and escalated suspicions against him to murder with indifference — a grave criminal classification under Israeli law.
The victims were Irina Radchuk (52) and Nitzan Goykhman (39), both chemical engineers employed at the refinery and residents of Ashdod. Radchuk is survived by her husband and daughter, while Goykhman leaves behind her husband and three children. Their sudden deaths have shaken the local community and sparked nationwide calls for clarity and justice.
Suspect Denies Responsibility
During questioning, the suspect reportedly denied any connection to the fatal incident. He claimed that the containers supplied to the refinery held medical air rather than oxygen and asserted he bore no responsibility for the sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
Investigators, however, appear to believe that serious negligence — or worse — may have played a role. The charge of “murder with indifference” suggests suspicion that critical risks were knowingly disregarded.
Ongoing Police Review
In an official statement, police emphasized the complexity of the case:
“This is a complex investigation that requires a thorough review of all the data before making decisions regarding criminal measures. As the investigation progresses and in accordance with its findings, the necessary steps will be taken according to law.”
Authorities are expected to request an extension of the suspect’s detention as forensic analysis, technical assessments, and witness testimonies continue.
Community in Mourning
The tragedy has renewed scrutiny over industrial safety protocols and supplier accountability in high-risk facilities. Colleagues described the victims as dedicated professionals whose expertise and commitment contributed significantly to refinery operations.
As the investigation deepens, the focus remains on uncovering the precise chain of events that led to the catastrophic outcome — and ensuring that, if wrongdoing is confirmed, justice is served.
