Spanish Journalist Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run

The hit-and-run driver who allegedly killed Chaim Tukachinsky z”l, 31, a chareidi musician, during Sukkos, was charged with manslaughter on Sunday, The Times of Israel reported.

The accused was identified as Spanish journalist Julio de la Guardia. While driving under the influence of alcohol, he hit Tukachinsky and sped from the scene, according to the indictment.

Prosecutors requested de la Guardia be held in custody until the end of legal proceedings against him.

Tukachinsky was killed in central Yerushalayim as he returned from the Kosel on the first night of Sukkos.

De la Guardia turned himself into police shortly after the incident. He told them that the accident occurred as he was trying to get away from three Palestinians on motorbikes who were following his car. He also claimed that he stopped his car not far from the scene, not knowing exactly what had happened, but then fled when people approached him, and he feared they would attack him.