On January 4, 2026, Judge Benny Sagi, president of the Beersheba District Court in southern Israel, died in a motorcycle crash on Highway 6. Police reported that an off‑road vehicle veered onto the highway and struck Sagi’s motorcycle, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sagi was 54 years old and had been appointed president of the Beersheba District Court in April 2025, after serving in an acting capacity since 2024. He had been a judge for about 20 years, specializing in criminal law and judicial administration.
Authorities opened an inquiry into the circumstances of the crash, examining how the off‑road vehicle entered the highway and struck Sagi. A driver was later arrested on suspicion of negligent homicide in connection with the collision. Investigators are also examining whether other factors, including possible impairment, played a role.
The Beersheba District Court handles civil and criminal cases in southern Israel. Sagi’s responsibilities included overseeing administrative matters at the court and presiding over assigned cases. Official records confirm he was not involved in the panel presiding over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial.
Colleagues and judicial officials expressed sorrow at Sagi’s passing, highlighting his professional contributions to the Israeli judiciary. Funeral arrangements were expected to be announced by his family.
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